Ajagba Eyes Bakole Showdown, Dismisses Torrez Talk—For Now Nigerian heavyweight contender Efe Ajagba has made it clear that his full attention is on his upcoming clash with Martin Bakole, rather than entertaining talk of a future bout with rising American prospect Richard Torrez Jr. Ajagba, who reached the quarterfinals at the 2016 Rio Olympics, is set to face Bakole on May 3 in Saudi Arabia in a high-stakes encounter that could open the door to a shot at the WBC world heavyweight title. For the 30-year-old Nigerian, the focus is crystal clear. “Right now, I’m focused on Martin Bakole,” Ajagba told journalist Sean Zittel. “That’s the fight that matters. The WBC title is on the line, and that’s where my mind is.” While Ajagba (20-1, 14 KOs) acknowledges the growing buzz around Torrez, he insists a potential clash between them is not on his radar—at least not yet. That said, he isn’t ruling out the possibility down the line. “If Torrez wants to fight me, I’m ready. I know how to handle pressure. I’ve fought southpaws before. But that fight only happens after I handle business with Bakole,” he added. Torrez (13-0, 11 KOs), a 2020 Olympic silver medalist, elevated his status last weekend with a dominant win over Guido Vianello in Las Vegas. The performance turned heads, including Ajagba’s. Sitting ringside, the Nigerian observed Torrez intently and gave him a standing ovation at the final bell. Still, Ajagba was quick to remind fans that stepping in the ring with him is a different kind of challenge. “Beating Vianello is one thing. Fighting me is another story entirely,” he said with confidence. Despite Torrez’s growing fanfare, Ajagba knows his immediate future hinges on overcoming Bakole—a fighter known for his raw power and resilience, even though he suffered a recent stoppage loss to Joseph Parker. That bout came on short notice, and Bakole remains undeterred in his pursuit of world title contention. Ajagba, aware of Bakole’s threat, is taking nothing for granted. “Bakole is dangerous. I’m not underestimating him. He’s got power, he’s got experience. That’s why my full attention is on this fight.” Should he emerge victorious on May 3, Ajagba will not only boost his stock in the heavyweight division but also find himself in pole position for a title shot—or potentially, a high-profile showdown with Torrez. For now, though, the message is clear: Bakole first, everything else later.