Daniel Dubois is one of the most in-form heavyweights right now but a ‘new George Foreman’ hopes to get in his way soon.
Dubois has put together three superb wins in his last three fights. The run started last December when he fought American Jarrell Miller in Saudi Arabia and managed to stop his man in the dying seconds of the 10th and final round having taken plenty of heavy fire early on.
After winning that fight, he was elevated to full IBF champion and then defended his belt in September against Anthony Joshua. In a career-best performance, he stopped the former two-time unified champion inside five rounds.
Now Martin Bakole, who is fourth in the IBF rankings with just one man ahead of him as the number one and two spots currently lie empty, has been put forward to take on Dubois by his promoter Ben Shalom. Speaking to Sky Sports, Shalom said that the man many high profile names in the sport have branded ‘the new George Foreman’ is ready.
“If they’re looking for an opponent for Daniel for February, Martin’s ready to step in. Martin is the future of the heavyweight division. He’s now closing in on his world title shot. Once he gets it, there’s going to be no stopping him. He beats Daniel Dubois and then he can unify the division.”
Shalom then referenced Bakole’s last fight, an impressive KO win over hot American prospect Jared Anderson.
“After the Anderson fight people are finally starting to take notice. I believe he’s the man to beat at heavyweight. The IBF title is his focus. He’s set to fight Kabayel next for mandatory status. Once he’s won the IBF title, he will be coming for all the belts.”
Bakole has been ordered to face the IBF’s number three contender, Agit Kabayel, so will likely take that to force a mandatory shot if Dubois looks elsewhere for this defence. The pair have a week to make a deal before purse bids come around.
