The International Boxing Federation (IBF) has directed Martin Bakole to face Efe Ajagba in a heavyweight title eliminator, with the winner becoming the mandatory challenger for the IBF world championship, currently held by Daniel Dubois.
This marks another change in Bakole’s path to the title. Previously, Agit Kabayel of Germany withdrew from the bout, and Zhilei Zhang, ranked fifth by the IBF, opted to pursue other opportunities. Now, Efe Ajagba, ranked seventh, has been approved by Top Rank and is set to take on Bakole, ranked fourth.
Bakole has been dominant in recent fights, securing emphatic victories over Jared Anderson and Carlos Takam. His decisive stoppage of Anderson, a highly regarded American prospect, showcased his power and sent a strong message to the heavyweight division.
“You don’t stand with Martin Bakole. I’m a big man, and I’m a machine,” Bakole declared after the win. “No one wants to fight me. I’m here to take over and become No. 1.”
Meanwhile, Dubois is preparing for a voluntary defense of his IBF title in February, with Joseph Parker rumored as a potential opponent. The IBF has indicated that Dubois will receive notice of his mandatory challenger around April 22, with the defense expected in June.
