Martin Bakole has caught the eye of boxing experts after his impressive win over Jared Anderson. The Congo-born heavyweight's performance in Los Angeles has drawn comparisons to legendary fighter George Foreman.
Bakole stopped Anderson in five rounds, showing off his power and resilience. His display got people talking, including some big names in the boxing world.
Oscar De La Hoya, the former champion turned promoter, shared his thoughts on the fight. He told FightHype:
"I felt pretty bad for Jared who got knocked out against a beast. I mean, that kid reminded me of George Foreman. Heavy-handed. Big. I feel Jared will be back. It was a great fight, no shame in his game, he's a great fighter."
Teddy Atlas, the veteran trainer and analyst, admitted he got it wrong about Bakole before the fight. He said:
"I hope he becomes heavyweight champ, that's how much he impressed me, and that's how much I want to apologise for being wrong about him."
Atlas noted how Bakole set his feet, let Anderson make mistakes, and timed him well. He praised the fighter's experience, determination, hunger, and pride.
Former world champion Paulie Malignaggi added his voice to the chorus of praise. He pointed out Bakole's punching power, excitement factor, and ability to hold his ground. Malignaggi said:
"I wouldn't mind seeing him against just about anybody. I don't know if he can become a world champion, I wouldn't go that far. He maybe can contend for one. I'd like to see him trying no less."
The comparisons to Foreman are high praise indeed. 'Big George' competed across four decades in the heavyweight division. He was known for his fearsome punching power and won world titles in the 1970s. After losing to Muhammad Ali in 'The Rumble in the Jungle' and retiring in 1977, Foreman made a comeback a decade later. He went on to become the oldest heavyweight champion at 45 in 1994.
Bakole's team is now looking for another big fight, possibly on a Riyadh Season card. Names like Zhilei Zhang, Joseph Parker, and Agit Kabayel are being mentioned as potential opponents.
Whether Bakole can live up to the Foreman comparisons remains to be seen. But one thing's for sure - he's got the boxing world talking after his latest win.
