Nigerian heavyweight boxer Efe Ajagba is convinced that he possesses all the attributes needed to become a world champion. With his next fight on the horizon, he has set his sights on the top contenders in the division.
The powerful Nigerian puncher is scheduled to take on Martin Bakole in Saudi Arabia on May 4. Their clash will be part of the undercard for Mexican boxing sensation Canelo Alvarez’s undisputed super middleweight title defense against William Scull.
Speaking with Sky Sports, Ajagba expressed confidence in his abilities, stating, “I have the abilities, I have the skills, I have the power, everything to become a heavyweight champion.”
The 30-year-old aims to strengthen his case for a shot at a world heavyweight title by overcoming Bakole. His ultimate ambition is to challenge either unified champion Oleksandr Usyk or IBF titleholder Daniel Dubois.
“I’m not overstepping. I’m just focused on Martin Bakole first,” Ajagba emphasized. “After that, when I get the victory, that’s when I’m going to step up to fight who I want to fight next. Whether it’s Usyk or Dubois.”
Bakole’s most recent bout saw him stepping in on short notice—just two days—to replace Daniel Dubois in a fight against Joseph Parker. Unfortunately for the Congolese boxer, he suffered a second-round knockout defeat.
Regardless of Bakole’s heavy loss, Ajagba remains cautious of his opponent’s capabilities. Bakole has notable victories over Jared Anderson, Tony Yoka, and Carlos Takam, proving himself a formidable fighter in the division.
When asked if Bakole’s knockout defeat might have affected his confidence, Ajagba responded, “To me, in my opinion, I don’t think so. I’m not going to take that knockout that he has (against Parker) to myself. I’m going to have more confidence to fight Martin Bakole. I’m preparing for (the best of) him.”
Since suffering his only professional loss to Frank Sanchez in October 2021, Ajagba has been in dominant form, winning five consecutive bouts. Holding a strong record of 20-1 with 14 knockouts, the Nigerian has intensified his training camp for the upcoming clash.
In preparation for the fight, Ajagba has been seen training with British heavyweight Johnny Fisher, also known as ‘The Romford Bull.’ His training sessions are focused on sharpening his technique and fine-tuning his strategy for this crucial matchup, which could significantly shape his future in the heavyweight division.
Meanwhile, former two-time world champion Anthony Joshua has voiced his support for Bakole, believing he has what it takes to recover from 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 remarked.
That said, Joshua has also thrown his backing behind Ajagba, showing confidence in his fellow Nigerian’s ability to win the fight.
Initially set to take place in New York, the much-anticipated heavyweight showdown has been relocated to Saudi Arabia, where it will now serve as part of the undercard for Canelo Alvarez’s title bout against William Scull.
