Martin Bakole vs. Efe Ajagba will face off in an intriguing heavyweight boxing clash on May 3, 2025, at the ANB Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This fight is much more than just a power punch—they are both exciting fighters, and it will be a chance for both to make a statement, with the winner surely moving closer to a world title shot.
Martin Bakole vs. Efe Ajagba
Martin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba: Tale of the Tape
Martin Bakole boasts a 21-2, 16 KO pro boxer heavyweight record. Since his loss to Michael Hunter in 2018, the Congolese boxer has got back into the mix with some impressive victories before his recent setback against Joseph Parker. But Bakole is still a world-class fighter who can hit hard and move in bursts as well.
On the other hand, Efe Ajagba 20-1, 14 KO is all raw power with an iron jaw. Since his 2021 defeat to Frank Sánchez, Nigeria’s Elder Statesman has been on a bit of a resurgence, his most recent success coming against Guido Vianello last April in a dominant win. Ajagba, regarded as one of Africa’s biggest boxing prospects, is well-known for his reach, primary weapon jab & hand-punch right hand.
Odds and Bookmakers’ Take
The best odds see bookmakers giving Martin Bakole a slight edge at around 1.27 (-400), while Efe Ajagba is going at around 3.30 (+330). These odds align with Bakole not only having the higher ring IQ but also seeming to have fought marginally better opposition in the top 10 fighters over the years.
That said, Betsson bettors betting on a shock KO might fancy Ajagba in the underdog role. Boxing betting fans can check out Betsson’s review, which is featured on the Cheeky Punter expert website review.
The consensus among fans sways slightly towards a Bakole win by stoppage, although due to the nature of the contest, a decision victory is not impossible for either side. On the flip side, Ajagba’s biggest avenue to winning is an emphatic KO, something he certainly knows how to do.
Where to Watch Martin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba
The bout will serve as one of the sideline bouts of the Canelo Álvarez vs. William Scull fight and will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN Pay-Per-View. The ring walks are expected around 9:15 PM BST / 11:15 PM EAT, although this is subject to change due to earlier fights.
Stakes and Storylines
This is a shot at redemption for Martin Bakole, following his recent defeat to Parker. The Congolese challenger has been candid in the fact that he is using that defeat as motivation and that if he were to defeat Ajagba, he would put himself back in the elite heavyweight picture.
For Ajagba, however, it is a chance to make a name for himself. The fight he has been preparing for is Bakole—he knows the challenges his movement and bodywork present, and his camp has focused on just that: preparation and patience.
Expect a tactical opening before things get explosive in the middle rounds. If Bakole stays within range and employs his combinations, he could squeak a unanimous decision. However, if Ajagba lands his right hand, an upset inside the distance in the late rounds is within the realm of possibility.
