Iranian-Canadian activist’s boxing gym riddled with 17 bullets just hours after U.S.-led strike kills Iran’s ayatollah, exposing radical regime supporters even in free nations like Canada.
Attack Details and Timeline
York Regional Police responded to Saliwan Boxing gym in Richmond Hill/Thornhill, Ontario, at approximately 3 a.m. on March 1, 2026. Investigators found the building struck by 17 bullets, shattering multiple windows and causing substantial property damage. The gym stood empty at the time, sparing anyone from injury. This occurred hours after U.S. and Israeli forces eliminated Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei during strikes launched February 28 over Iran’s nuclear program. Canadian police had boosted patrols in the area, anticipating backlash from Middle East escalation.
Gholami’s Activism Makes Him a Target
Salar Gholami, an undefeated Canadian Cruiserweight boxing champion, owns Saliwan Boxing, a hub for Iranian-Canadian diaspora advocating regime change. The gym displays Iranian flags and hosts planning for anti-regime rallies. Gholami co-organized a massive February 14, 2026, Toronto protest drawing over 350,000 people demanding an end to the ayatollahs’ rule. He moved to Canada for freedom but now faces violence from those opposing his fight against oppression. Gholami vows to persist despite the threat.
" Thornhill's Saliwan Boxing gym, owned by Iranian freedom activist Salar Gholami, was riddled with ~70 bullets early Sunday—hours after he rallied celebrating US/Israeli strikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei.
Gholami Says: 'It’s crazy… Our gym is for girls, teens,… pic.twitter.com/YuIYWJlTJN— Maverick News (@rw581) March 2, 2026
Police Response and Investigation Status
York Regional Police and Toronto Police Service increased presence across the region starting February 28, recognizing risks of community clashes tied to global events. The Firearms Investigations Team now canvasses for security footage and witnesses. Police describe the shooting as potentially targeted, though motive remains unclear pending evidence. Gholami called it the first such incident at his gym, blaming pro-regime radicals who support terrorists. No arrests occurred as of March 1.
Canadian authorities prioritize public safety in Iranian-heavy neighborhoods like Thornhill. This proactive policing echoes the firm security measures under President Trump’s border policies, which prioritize protecting citizens from foreign threats spilling over.
Implications for Diaspora Communities
The attack alarms Iranian-Canadians, highlighting vulnerabilities when activists challenge tyrannical regimes. Short-term, gym operations face disruption from repairs, affecting youth boxing classes. Long-term, it risks polarizing communities between freedom fighters and regime backers. Gholami’s resilience may inspire continued protests, but safety fears could deter participation. Broader questions arise on balancing free speech with preventing imported violence from global hotspots.
Under President Trump in 2026, America’s decisive action against Iran demonstrates the strength needed against radical Islamists. Weak past policies allowed such threats to fester; now, victories like Khamenei’s demise protect allies and expose cowards targeting dissenters abroad. Conservative values of liberty and security demand vigilance everywhere.
Sources:
CityNews Toronto – Iranian-owned business in Thornhill hit by gunfire, police say
Blazing Cat Fur – WARMINGTON: Iranian-Canadian activist’s gym shot up hours after ayatollah’s demise