Without Zhang or Kabayel: What’s Happening with Martin Bakole’s IBF Contender Status

Congolese heavyweight Martin Bakole (21-1, 16 KOs) has been lined up with a new possible opponent, Nigerian boxer Efe Ajagba (20-1, 14 KOs), in the race for the IBF mandatory challenger position.

Previously, Bakole was set to negotiate with Agit Kabayel and later Zhang Zhilei. Kabayel declined the talks, citing financial disagreements, while Zhang has now also opted out, reportedly “moving in a different direction.”

Should Bakole and Ajagba finalize an agreement, the winner of their fight will become the mandatory challenger for the IBF heavyweight title, currently held by Daniel Dubois.