Battle for Africa: Martin Bakole vs. Efe Ajagba

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - This Saturday, May 4, at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the heavyweight division will deliver yet another significant showdown as Martin Bakole 21-2 (16 KOs) takes on Efe Ajagba 20-1 (14 KOs) in a 10-round bout brimming with risk, redemption, and title implications.

Though it no longer serves as an IBF final eliminator due to Bakole's recent loss, this fight remains a pivotal clash between two top-15 contenders whose future relevance in the heavyweight elite depends on the outcome. A victory for either man won’t guarantee a title shot, but it will open the door to fights against the likes of Kubrat Pulev, Michael Hunter, or another top 10 contender.

The Comeback Trail for Bakole

For Bakole, this is less about opportunity and more about survival.

The Congolese contender was stopped brutally in round two by Joseph Parker in February—a fight he took on just 48 hours’ notice. Despite the setback, Bakole retains his promoter's confidence. Ben Shalom, head of Boxxer, has backed his man, emphasizing that the Parker defeat came with full knowledge of the risks. The real focus, he insists, is the Ajagba fight, which remained on the calendar despite the detour.

"The key is activity," said Shalom. "Martin’s got a massive profile now and is one of the biggest names in the division."

Before Parker, Bakole had built quiet momentum, including a dominant win over Olympic gold medalist Tony Yoka and a points victory over veteran Carlos Takam. His combination of raw power and rugged tenacity make him dangerous for anyone outside the top five.

Ajagba Looks to Make a Statement

For Ajagba, this is a chance to finally validate his potential. After being heralded as a future titleholder early in his career, the Nigerian puncher suffered a setback in 2021, losing a clear decision to the slick Frank Sanchez. Since then, Ajagba has put together five straight wins, most recently edging Guido Vianello by split decision.

Still, questions remain. Has Ajagba evolved since the Sanchez loss, or has he simply been matched wisely? Bakole, even in his recent defeat, may prove to be the acid test.

"I'm not overstepping. I'm just focused on Martin Bakole first," said Ajagba to Sky Sports. "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."

Ajagba’s right hand is one of the most powerful in the division. When he lets it go clean, fights often end. But against top-level opponents, he’ll need more than just firepower. He’ll need poise, durability, and the ability to respond to adversity.

What’s at Stake

This bout is a measuring stick. Both men hover just outside the top tier, and both have glaring flaws and compelling strengths. Bakole's recent loss may diminish his rankings, but a dominant win could put him right back in the mix. Ajagba, meanwhile, is eager to graduate from being a prospect with promise to a true contender.

While the winner won't walk away with a belt, they will likely land themselves in one of the most important fights of their career later this year—be it a high-profile eliminator or even a big-name clash.

Prediction and Outlook

Expect fireworks early. Bakole doesn’t mind getting into close quarters, and Ajagba is most dangerous in the first half of fights. But the deeper this goes, the more it may benefit the fighter who’s better conditioned and able to adapt mid-bout.

With the heavyweight division experiencing a renaissance of activity, the winner of this bout won’t just be "in the mix." They’ll be in the conversation.

Final Word

This Saturday isn’t just a return for Bakole or a proving ground for Ajagba. It’s a crossroads bout where both must show they still belong in the business of heavyweight contention. With Canelo Alvarez headlining the event against William Scull, the eyes of the fight world will be on Riyadh—and the winner of Bakole vs. Ajagba will leave with far more than a win. They'll leave with momentum, credibility, and a career that still points upward.