Martin Bakole’s name has been thrust into the conversation of heavyweight contenders over recent weeks, with the Congolese big man fighting out of Scotland signing a new deal with BOXXER and Sky Sports.
Bakole’s career has seen a resurgence over the last twelve months, with a win over Rio 2016 Olympic Gold medallist, Tony Yoka catching the eyes of many and putting Bakole’s name into contention for much bigger contests.
Before his win over the Frenchman, the honorary ‘King of Scotland’ was perceived as a test for most heavyweights, but never truly considered a threat to the crown, even despite rumours of success in sparring against many of the division’s main players.
Of those gym tales, his trainer, Billy Nelson, has previously claimed that his man stopped unified champion, Oleksandr Usyk, with a body shot, broke Daniel Dubois’ nose, and knocked the headguard off of Joe Joyce.
These claims were dismissed by many boxing fans as a means to entice a big name into a fight with Bakole.
Now, there is proof that at least one of Nelson’s rumours is true, with leaked footage on social media showing the 29-year-old [neon] punch the head guard off of Joyce [white].
Bakole vs Joyce‼️
Here’s a 30sec clip of leaked sparring footage between Joe Joyce (white trunks) who fought last Saturday & Martin Bakole who fights this Saturday April 22nd Live on SkySports..?#Boxing pic.twitter.com/Mbt1OiAca0
— AccordingToBoxing (@AccordToBoxing) April 18, 2023
Sparring clips are ignored by many in the sport given the lack of context that’s provided with them.
Bakole has made a winning start to life under the Sky Sports and BOXXER banner, knocking out Ihor ‘Hulk’ Shevadzutskyi in the third round of his promotional debut in Poland.
Following the victory, the former WBC International champion called out the likes of Dillian Whyte and Deontay Wilder, but many fans still believe he should instead attempt to avenge the lone defeat of his career against Michael Hunter.
