
Nigerian heavyweight boxing sensation Efe Ajagba has ramped up the tension ahead of his much-anticipated International Boxing Federation (IBF) title eliminator fight against Congolese opponent Martin Bakole, scheduled for May.
Ajagba, popularly known as The Silent Roller, took to social media on Wednesday, posting a bold message directed at Bakole. In an Instagram post, he wrote, “Coming to whoop your as the Naija way.”* The statement has further fueled anticipation for the bout, which is expected to be a high-stakes contest.
This latest jab follows a previous warning from Ajagba, where he shared footage of his stunning knockout victory over Brian Howard, showcasing his punching power and dominance in the ring.
The fight, set to take place in the United States, will be part of a star-studded boxing event organized by Saudi boxing mogul Turki Alalshikh. The fight card also includes blockbuster matchups such as Ryan Garcia vs. Rolando Romero and Devin Haney vs. Jose Ramirez, making it one of the most anticipated events of the year.
Ajagba, who boasts an impressive professional record of 20 wins and just one loss, with 14 knockouts, has been on a strong comeback streak. Since his sole defeat to Frank Sanchez in 2021, he has registered five consecutive victories, proving his resilience and skill.
However, his opponent, Martin Bakole, is also a formidable force in the heavyweight division. Ranked fourth by the IBF, Bakole has been in devastating form, particularly after his dominant fifth-round stoppage of American rising star Jared Anderson last August.
Following that victory, Bakole sent a chilling message to the boxing world, declaring, “You don’t stand with Martin Bakole. I am a big man, and I am a machine. No one wants to fight me.”
With both fighters in prime condition and eager to prove their dominance, the bout carries major stakes. The winner will secure a mandatory shot at the IBF heavyweight title, currently held by Daniel Dubois, who is set to defend his belt against Joseph Parker on February 22 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Meanwhile, the IBF recently scrapped its planned purse bid hearing for the fight, giving Ajagba’s and Bakole’s promoters—Top Rank and BOXXER—the opportunity to finalize negotiations privately.
As the fight draws closer, boxing fans around the world eagerly anticipate a clash that could reshape the heavyweight landscape. With Ajagba’s power and Bakole’s unyielding strength, the contest promises fireworks in the ring.