Joseph Parker made a big splash in the heavyweight boxing world by knocking out Martin Bakole in Riyadh this February. The New Zealander didn't waste any time, finishing the fight in the second round.
Parker wasn't supposed to face Bakole. He was set to fight Daniel Dubois for the IBF heavyweight title, but Dubois got sick just days before the fight. Bakole stepped up at the last minute, arriving in Riyadh at 3 AM on fight day with no training camp.
Bakole wasn't an easy opponent. He'd just beaten Jared Anderson and Carlos Takam, and he's known for his punching power. But Parker was ready for him.
After the fight, Parker talked about how tough Bakole is. He said:
"I've had a lot of experience sparring him. He is one tough man. Even though I got him out of there in the second round, those punches he landed did hurt."
This win keeps Parker on track for a world title shot. He's still the WBO interim champ, and he might get another chance to fight Dubois for the IBF title. Dubois says there's "unfinished business" between them.
As for Bakole, he's not giving up. He's got a fight with Efe Ajagba coming up on May 3. It was supposed to be an IBF final eliminator, but that's changed now. Bakole wants to show everyone he's still the guy to beat in the division.
Parker's knockout win over Bakole was a big statement. It'll be interesting to see what's next for both fighters.
