Martin Bakole Stops Carlos Takam in the fourth round
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (October 28, 2023) - The opening moments of Martin Bakole vs. Carlos Takam was marked by a cautious feeling-out process. Bakole occasionally threw strong hooks and straights at Takam's chin, but there were no knockdowns or dramatic exchanges. We had to wait for the second round to see if the pace would pick up or if they'd start to engage more. Unfortunately, they continued in the same manner. It wasn't until a minute before the end of the round that we saw some action, with a few exchanges but without significant damage.
Trainer Billy Nelson has disclosed Martin Bakole sustained a sever back injury in camp ahead of his fight with Carlos Takam, with Bakole also saying in the postfight interview that he only spent two weeks in the gym for this fight (and this is why he weighed more).
— BoxingSquared (@Boxing_Squared) October 28, 2023
The third round began with more intensity as Bakole started bombarding Takam, who responded with a flurry of punches to both the head and body. Finally, we witnessed a round full of action, and Bakole managed to stun his opponent as the bell rang. He continued his onslaught in the fourth round, punishing Takam with powerful hooks. He dismantled Takam's face throughout the round and finally the referee decided to stop the fight. It was a technical knockout victor for Bakole in the fourth round.
It’s all over in r4. Martin Bakole stalking Takam early with Takam on shaky legs from the previous round. Bakole connecting throughout the round & what did Takam the most damage was some sickening left hooks to the body. Takam visibly hurt was retreating after that & ref jumps in
— BoxingSquared (@Boxing_Squared) October 28, 2023
After the bout, Bakole expressed:
"I'm happy to be in Saudi Arabia. Thanks to everyone who came out to support boxing. Takam is a tough guy, and I respect him. Thanks to everyone; I'm ready for anything!"
See fight page here.
