Plans are underway for a possible Anthony Joshua vs Martin Bakole heavyweight blockbuster struggle in Nigeria in 2026, as prime Nigerian promoter Dr. Ezekiel Adamu pushes to deliver one of many sport’s largest occasions to Africa.
Following his IBF world heavyweight title defeat to Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in September 2024, former two-time world champion Anthony Joshua is gearing up for a comeback and Nigeria could possibly be the stage for his subsequent large struggle.
Learn Additionally: ‘Chaos in the Ring’: Adamu hints at staging heavyweight title fight in Nigeria
Adamu Confirms Talks with Anthony Joshua’s Camp
Dr. Adamu, the CEO of Balmoral Group Promotions, who just lately staged the profitable “Chaos within the Ring” boxing occasion in Lagos in partnership with Amir Khan, confirmed that discussions are already underway to deliver Joshua residence for a landmark bout.
“It was an incredible success, a brand new opening for boxing in Africa,” Adamu instructed Sky Sports activities.
“The reception has been nice from the locals, the boxing world, and the federal government as effectively.”
Adamu revealed that talks are ongoing to safe Anthony Joshua’s struggle within the first quarter of 2026.
“We’ve had a preliminary dialog, and we’ll preserve going,” Adamu mentioned.
Learn additionally: Trainer confirms Anthony Joshua vs Martin Bakole fight in DR Congo
“Everyone knows AJ has at all times mentioned he needs to struggle in Africa earlier than the top of his profession, and we consider Nigeria is one of the best story. With over 250 million folks and a robust financial system, Nigeria is the heartbeat of Africa, and we’re able to make it occur.”
Adamu additionally acknowledged Bakole as one among a number of doable opponents being thought-about.
“He’s positively an possibility,” he mentioned. “There are numerous names on the desk for this explicit struggle, however we would like one thing that may excite the world and convey actual sporting vitality to Africa, particularly Nigeria.”
Bakole Eager to Face Anthony Joshua in ‘Rumble within the Jungle II’
One of many frontrunners to face Joshua is Congolese heavyweight Martin Bakole, a former sparring accomplice of the British-Nigerian star. Bakole, who has shared the ring with Joshua in coaching camps, is raring to make the struggle occur.
“I’d take the struggle with Anthony Joshua in a heartbeat,” Bakole instructed Sky Sports activities. “We’re each African fighters, and now we’re seeing boxing return to Africa. If we get within the ring, I’ll knock him out, even in entrance of his residence crowd in Nigeria. This is able to be the Rumble within the Jungle II.”
