James Van Riemsdyk drops the gloves with towering opponent.

James Van Riemsdyk wasn't about to shy away from the rough stuff last night.

During last night's chippy game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Buffalo Sabres, the Leafs' forward decided to drop the gloves in a rare display of fisticuffs. Van Riemsdyk (6'3/ 210 lbs) decides to throw down with Sabres' defenceman Rasmus Ristolainen (6'4/ 203 lbs).

According to Hockey Fights, it is only the third fight of JVR's career and Ristolainen's very first dance in the NHL.

The two big men aren't exactly seasoned goons, but they manage to clutch and grab their way to a few heavy punches. Van Riemsdyk appears to come out on top in this bout, though it was more of a matter pride than dominance.

Let it be known, JVR isn't afraid to show his gritty side.

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