Ajagba Stops Former IBF Champion Martin In Brutal Fourth-Spherical Knockout, Calls Out Usyk

Nigerian heavyweight contender Efe Ajagba delivered a devastating assertion in Las Vegas, overpowering former IBF world champion Charles Martin with a ruthless fourth-round stoppage to additional cement his place among the many division’s elite.

Ajagba (21-1-1, 15 KOs), who added 15 kilos of muscle throughout coaching camp, adopted up two knockdowns with three thunderous proper palms that pressured referee Thomas Taylor to wave off the competition as Martin sagged helplessly in opposition to the ropes.

The opening spherical was intently fought, with Ajagba edging it by means of his trademark heavy proper palms. Nevertheless, Martin, a former IBF title holder, responded sharply within the second spherical, touchdown a number of left palms and displaying superior hand pace in opposition to his bulked-up opponent.

However the momentum shifted decisively within the third.

A vicious proper hook from Ajagba despatched Martin crashing to the canvas. Sensing the end, the Nigerian pressed ahead with a barrage of punches that left the American reeling on the ropes. The assault continued into the fourth spherical, the place a second knockdown paved the way in which for Ajagba to shut the present in emphatic trend.

The stoppage marks a major assertion victory for Ajagba as he continues to consolidate his place inside the prime tier of the heavyweight rankings and strengthen his declare for a world title alternative.

Talking after the struggle, Ajagba made his intentions clear.

“I’m able to struggle anybody within the division,” Ajagba mentioned.
“I’m ranked within the prime 10, however nobody is saying my identify.”

For Martin, the defeat represents one other setback in a faltering run, with the previous champion now struggling his fourth loss in his final eight outings, additional dimming his hopes of re-entering the world title image.

Boluwatife Enome

Times Nigeria