Congolese boxer Martin Bakole sends a shocker as he had-delivers the first loss to Jared “Big Baby” Anderson in fifth-round stoppage win.
Anderson started strong, controlling the first round, but Bakole turned the tide with a powerful combination at the end of the round, knocking Anderson down for the first time in his career. Bakole continued to press his advantage, landing heavy shots and scoring two more knockdowns in the fifth round. The fight was stopped at 2:07 of the fifth round by referee Jerry Cantu after a barrage of unanswered punches from Bakole.
“I want to thank Big Baby for accepting a fight with me,” a celebratory Bakole said. “I’m the most avoided heavyweight in the world. I wish him good luck in the future. Don’t give up, go back to the gym and work hard.
I told you from the beginning I’m a machine. I’m here to take over. I want to be number one. No one wants to fight me, but with His Excellency I know I can get any fight I want … Don’t stand with Martin Bakole – I’m big machine. I can take punches for 12 rounds.
Michael Hunter is here. My boy is here. This is the fight I always want. You want to talk on social media? I’m here in America. I stopped the number one American here. I’m looking to face Usyk or Tyson, but Michael Hunter, I want the rematch. That’s the reason why I’m calling him here, so we can do this baby.”
Throughout the fight, Bakole’s power was evident, throwing 195 power punches and landing 68, compared to Anderson’s 99 thrown and 45 landed. Despite Anderson’s resilience and attempts to trade blows, Bakole’s relentless attack proved too much.
The match was a significant setback for Anderson, who was considered a rising star in American heavyweight boxing. Bakole’s victory has positioned him as a formidable contender in the division.
