Plans are underway for a potential Anthony Joshua vs Martin Bakole heavyweight blockbuster fight in Nigeria in 2026, as top Nigerian promoter Dr. Ezekiel Adamu pushes to bring one of the sport’s biggest events to Africa.
Following his IBF world heavyweight title defeat to Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in September 2024, former two-time world champion Anthony Joshua is gearing up for a comeback and Nigeria could be the stage for his next big fight.
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Adamu Confirms Talks with Anthony Joshua’s Camp
Dr. Adamu, the CEO of Balmoral Group Promotions, who recently staged the successful “Chaos in the Ring” boxing event in Lagos in partnership with Amir Khan, confirmed that discussions are already underway to bring Joshua home for a landmark bout.
“It was an amazing success, a new opening for boxing in Africa,” Adamu told Sky Sports.
“The reception has been great from the locals, the boxing world, and the government as well.”
Adamu revealed that talks are ongoing to secure Anthony Joshua’s fight in the first quarter of 2026.
“We’ve had a preliminary conversation, and we’ll keep going,” Adamu said.
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“We all know AJ has always said he wants to fight in Africa before the end of his career, and we believe Nigeria is the best story. With over 250 million people and a strong economy, Nigeria is the heartbeat of Africa, and we’re ready to make it happen.”
Adamu also acknowledged Bakole as one of several possible opponents being considered.
“He’s definitely an option,” he said. “There are a lot of names on the table for this particular fight, but we want something that will excite the world and bring real sporting energy to Africa, especially Nigeria.”
Bakole Keen to Face Anthony Joshua in ‘Rumble in the Jungle II’
One of the frontrunners to face Joshua is Congolese heavyweight Martin Bakole, a former sparring partner of the British-Nigerian star. Bakole, who has shared the ring with Joshua in training camps, is eager to make the fight happen.
“I’d take the fight with Anthony Joshua in a heartbeat,” Bakole told Sky Sports. “We’re both African fighters, and now we’re seeing boxing return to Africa. If we get in the ring, I’ll knock him out, even in front of his home crowd in Nigeria. This would be the Rumble in the Jungle II.”
