Anthony Joshua called out by heavyweight dangerman: Is a Clash Inevitable?
Martin Bakole is fuming after hearing Anthony Joshua’s comments about his upcoming fight with Efe Ajagba. The two heavyweight boxers, who once shared sparring sessions, have now found themselves at odds. Bakole, who is ranked in the top five by all major boxing organizations, is set to face Ajagba in an IBF world title eliminator in 2025. However, Joshua’s recent comments about the fight have sparked a fiery response from the Congolese-born, Scottish-based fighter.
Bakole’s Fiery Response
Bakole (21-1, 16 KOs) took to his social media platform to share a video calling out the former world champion Joshua (28-4, 25 KOs). In the video, Bakole addresses Joshua’s remark where he supported Ajagba, despite acknowledging the heavyweight showdown as a significant African clash. Joshua had stated, “Two giants of Africa coming together to collide. It’s going to be an interesting fight. Efe is a good boxer, and obviously, I’m going to support Efe, even though he doesn’t support me.”
This comment did not sit well with Bakole, who demanded respect and a fair challenge from Joshua. He responded, “Hey Anthony Joshua, this video is for you. I wanted to call you out. You’re talking s*** about Ajagba saying he’s going to beat me. Shame on you. How many times did I call you out? How many times did I ask you to fight in Africa? You should feel ashamed of yourself.” Bakole didn’t hold back, declaring his intention to knock Joshua out, stating, “I want to fight you, I want to knock you out. Look at Daniel Dubois, I broke his nose twice when sparring, and he knocked you out cold. I will knock you out in the first round.”
Bakole’s Rise in the Heavyweight Division
The bad blood between Joshua and Bakole could potentially lead to an explosive clash, especially after Bakole’s recent victory over Jared Anderson in August 2024, where he cemented his reputation as one of the most feared punchers in the heavyweight division. Bakole is now positioning himself for a world title shot in 2025, and a fight with Joshua could offer him the platform to further solidify his credentials.
Joshua’s Uncertain Future
Joshua, on the other hand, is currently taking some time away from the sport after suffering a devastating knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024. Despite the loss, Joshua remains determined to stage a comeback, with hopes of securing a fight with Tyson Fury and regaining a world title. His recent comments supporting Ajagba have ignited tension with Bakole, but whether a fight between the two will materialize is still up in the air.
What’s Next for Both Fighters?
Anthony Joshua‘s future in boxing may now hinge on whether he chooses to confront Bakole or focuses on regaining his form for a potential title fight against Tyson Fury. With Bakole’s knockout power and his ambition to prove himself as the top contender, a showdown between him and Joshua could be one of the most anticipated fights in the heavyweight division. As the drama between these two fighters intensifies, fans are eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this heavyweight rivalry.
