Efe Ajagba and Martin Bakole Battle to Dramatic Draw in Heavyweight Showdown
In a highly anticipated all-African heavyweight showdown, Nigeria’s Efe Ajagba and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Martin Bakole battled to a majority draw on Saturday night in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The bout, which served as the co-main event on the undercard of the Canelo Alvarez vs. William Scull fight, left fans and pundits alike debating the outcome and calling for a rematch.
From the opening bell, the fight showcased the contrasting styles of the two heavyweights. Ajagba, known for his powerful jab and reach advantage, utilized his footwork and distance control to keep Bakole at bay in the early rounds. Bakole, on the other hand, pressed forward relentlessly, seeking to close the distance and land his signature heavy blows.
As the fight progressed, Ajagba appeared to control the pace, but Bakole’s aggression and power shots in the middle rounds swayed momentum in his favor. The bout was a display of tactical prowess and resilience from both fighters, each having their moments of dominance.
Judges’ Scorecards and Controversy
After ten grueling rounds, the judges rendered a majority draw decision: two judges scored the fight 95-95, while the third awarded it 96-94 in favor of Ajagba. This outcome sparked immediate reactions from fans and boxing analysts, many of whom believed Ajagba had done enough to secure the victory.
punches (42%) compared to Bakole’s 145 of 460 (32%). Power punches were nearly even, with Ajagba landing 84 to Bakole’s 82. Despite these numbers, the judges saw the fight as too close to call, leading to the draw decision.
Post-Fight Reactions
Both fighters expressed dissatisfaction with the result. Ajagba stated, “I won the fight, to be honest. It’s not up to me to decide; it’s the judges’ decision. But if you ask me, I won the fight.” Bakole echoed similar sentiments, saying, “I thought I won the fight, but it is what it is. I will ask for a rematch.
The draw leaves both fighters with records of 20-1-1 for Ajagba and 21-2-1 for Bakole. The outcome has significant implications for their standings in the heavyweight division, as both were vying for a position to challenge for a world title.
Calls for a Rematch
The controversial decision has led to widespread calls for a rematch. Ajagba expressed interest in a rematch, preferably in the United States, while Bakole, who admitted to not having a full training camp, believes a rematch
Promoters and fans alike are eager to see the two heavyweights face off again to settle the debate definitively. Given the competitive nature of the first bout and the unresolved questions surrounding the decision, a rematch would be a highly anticipated event in the boxing calendar.
Conclusion
The heavyweight clash between Efe Ajagba and Martin Bakole delivered on its promise of excitement and competitiveness. While the majority draw leaves the question of Africa’s top heavyweight unanswered, it sets the stage for a potential rematch that could provide clarity. Both fighters have expressed their desire to run it back, and the boxing world eagerly awaits the next chapter in this compelling rivalry.