Anthony Joshua and Martin Bakole: Nigerian and Congo boxers face off

Anthony Joshua was the star attraction at the 2025 Ring Magazine Awards in London.

For the first time since being knocked out cold by his British opponent in September, the former two-time heavyweight world champion faced Daniel Dubois.

The majority of AJ's evening was devoted to discussing the possibility of a fight with Tyson Fury, which is still one of the biggest in boxing even though both fighters seem to be past their prime.

Anthony Joshua might box the heavyweight division's dark horse if that bout doesn't work out.

Congolese knockout fighter Martin Bakole has quietly risen through the heavyweight ranks, amassing a 22-1 record.

In August 2024, the 31-year-old had a spectacular performance, knocking out American contender Jared Anderson three times on his way to a shocking fifth-round triumph.

He has been working to find a well-known opponent ever since.

As a potential eliminator for the IBF heavyweight title, Bakole is currently scheduled to fight 20-1 contender Efe Ajagba in March.

Recently, Joshua was asked what he thought of Bakole and Ajagba's impending battle.

Bakole attacked Joshua on social media for supporting the Nigerian to win.

Bakole ran into Joshua at the fancy awards ceremony in London a few days after his outburst.

The heavyweights faced off in anticipation of a possible match, but everything appeared to be under control as Joshua tried his best to maintain a straight face.