Efe Ajagba vs. Martin Bakole Set for Heavyweight Clash in Saudi Arabia on May 3

Rescheduled Bout Adds Firepower to Canelo Alvarez’s Undercard

Heavyweight boxing fans are in for an explosive showdown as Nigeria’s Efe Ajagba and Democratic Republic of Congo’s Martin Bakole prepare to square off on May 3 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This highly anticipated fight, originally scheduled to take place in New York City, has been moved to the Middle East, where Saudi Arabia continues to establish itself as a major hub for elite boxing events.

Ajagba and Bakole will feature on the undercard of Saul “Canelo” Alvarez’s super middleweight championship bout, adding even more excitement to an already star-studded event.

FIFA Announces Record $1 Billion Prize Fund for 2025 Club World Cup

Bakole Looks for Redemption After Stunning Knockout Loss

The rescheduling of this bout follows Bakole’s devastating second-round knockout loss to Joseph Parker in February, where he stepped in as a late replacement for an ill Daniel Dubois. Despite this setback, Bakole remains ranked among the top five heavyweights in several rankings and is determined to bounce back stronger.

The Congolese fighter enters the ring with a professional record of 21 wins (16 KOs) and 2 losses, and his previous performances have shown his ability to deliver spectacular knockouts. His biggest statement win came in August 2023, when he scored a fifth-round knockout of Jared Anderson, a previously undefeated American prospect.

Ajagba’s Momentum and Confident Approach

On the other side, Efe Ajagba, known as “The Silent Roller,” brings an impressive record of 20 wins (14 KOs) and 1 loss. He has been on a dominant five-fight winning streak since suffering his only career defeat. Ajagba’s heavy hands and knockout power have made him a rising contender in the division, and he is eager to capitalize on this opportunity.

Adding to the tension, Ajagba has taken to social media to taunt Bakole, boldly declaring his intention to “woop your as* the Naija way,” intensifying the rivalry and setting the stage for a high-energy clash.

Heavyweight Stars Weigh in on the Matchup

The upcoming fight has drawn significant attention from boxing legends, including Anthony Joshua, a former two-time heavyweight champion, who has publicly backed Bakole despite his recent loss.

“Bakole believes in himself, and he’s got every right to. He’s a serious fighter. That’s not the end; this is the heavyweight division,” Joshua stated, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the sport.

Joshua has also acknowledged Ajagba’s talent, highlighting that this fight presents a competitive and thrilling matchup between two powerful heavyweights.

What’s at Stake?

For both Ajagba and Bakole, this fight represents more than just another victory—it is a pivotal career moment. A win on such a high-profile card could propel the victor into title contention, while a loss would be a significant setback in an increasingly crowded heavyweight division.

With both fighters boasting knockout power, fans can expect an intense and action-packed battle when they step into the ring in Riyadh. With the fight set to take place under the spotlight of one of boxing’s biggest events, all eyes will be on May 3, as two of Africa’s hardest hitters go head-to-head for heavyweight supremacy.