Joseph Parker is pretty upbeat upon learning that Martin Bakole is his new opponent for Saturday after IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois took ill and had to be pulled from the card in Riyadh.
Parker (35-3, 23 KOs) says he wants to “challenge” himself, and he views #2 WBA, #2 WBO, #3 IBF, and #4 WBC Bakole (21-1, 16 KOs) as the kind of fight he wants. Boxing fans on social media are split about who they feel will win this fight.
Bakole’s Power
Many of them believe that Bakole will be out of shape because he’s coming in on two days’ notice without a training camp. Bakole is always heavy, but for this fight, it’s possible he could be bigger than usual. In a photo on social media today of Bakole leaving the airport in Congo, he looked about the same as usual. So, his weight won’t be a problem.
It’s going to be a difficult fight for Parker to deal with the size and power of the 6’6″ Bakole, as he’s hugely powerful, and he’s not going to run out of gas or be gunshy like his last two opponents.
“I guess one opportunity goes away and another comes,” said Joseph Parker to iFL TV, reacting to being told that Martin Bakole is his new opportunity for Saturday night. “Bakole has been waiting for a big fight. So, let’s get it on.
“Maybe we can revisit this fight [Daniel Dubois] down the line. I want to be champion of the world. Bakole is the most avoided heavyweight, but I love to challenge myself. I sat down with Spencer and Turki and we welcomed anyone. Now, we got Martin Bakole, which is great.
“I’ll have my chance again at some point, but for now, my focus is on Martin Bakole. He’s a beast. Let’s get ready,” said Parker about him still wanting to fight for the IBF title against Dubois or whoever holds it.
Martin Bakole on his way to Riyadh via Congo . Joseph Parker vs Bakole is on….. pic.twitter.com/FKW5FCNSvP
— Boxing King Media (@boxingkingmedia) February 20, 2025
Last Updated on 02/21/2025