Joshua’s Team Refutes Bakole Fight Claims

Anthony Joshua’s team has refuted claims that the former world champion has agreed to a heavyweight showdown with Martin Bakole in Africa, clarifying that no discussions regarding the fight have taken place.

Speaking to BoxNation, boxing analyst Gareth A. Davies stated that Joshua’s camp had not been involved in any talks about the proposed matchup, despite assertions from Bakole’s promoter, Ben Shalom, that the deal had already been finalized for a fight in Congo.

“I’ve been informed by Joshua’s representatives that no discussions have even occurred. It seems like Bakole and his team are attempting to manifest this fight by pushing the narrative,” Davies explained.

Previously, Shalom had boldly claimed, “I want to be recognized as Martin Bakole’s promoter—the best heavyweight in the world. The fight is confirmed. From what I hear, Joshua has signed, and we’re heading to Congo.”

Joshua has not stepped into the ring since suffering a fifth-round knockout defeat to IBF champion Daniel Dubois last September. Initially, the British-Nigerian fighter had aimed for a blockbuster bout with Tyson Fury this year, but those plans fell through when Fury announced his retirement in early 2025.

According to Matchroom CEO Frank Smith, Joshua is expected to return to action during the summer, while his promoter, Eddie Hearn, has emphasized that they are evaluating multiple fight options.

Meanwhile, Bakole has been in formidable form, securing dominant stoppage wins over Carlos Takam and rising American prospect Jared Anderson in his last two outings. The Congolese fighter is currently gearing up for an IBF eliminator clash against Nigeria’s Efe Ajagba.

If the fight between Joshua and Bakole materializes, it would mark a historic moment for African boxing, with the potential of being staged at the iconic venue that hosted the legendary ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman over five decades ago.