Joseph Parker was poised to send a clear message to the heavyweight division. Originally set to clash with IBF world champion Daniel Dubois, a sudden illness forced a last-minute change. In stepped Martin Bakole, the powerful Congolese contender, a late replacement known for his formidable punching power.
Despite the abrupt shift in opponent, Parker, guided by the strategic wisdom of coach Andy Lee, remained focused. The atmosphere was heightened by the coinciding Saudi Arabia Foundation Day, adding to the grand scale of the event. Parker, having stated that no matter who stepped in the ring he would deliver, was ready.
From the opening bell, Parker displayed a calculated aggression. He moved with a surprising fluidity, even at his career-heaviest weight, a strategic increase that clearly amplified his power. He effectively utilised his jab to control the distance, keeping Bakole, who arrived in Saudi Arabia shortly before the fight and carried a significant weight advantage, at bay.
Bakole, known for his relentless pressure, attempted to close the gap, but Parker’s sharpness and patience proved decisive. The opening round saw Bakole land a heavy uppercut, a clear sign of the danger he possessed. Bleeding slightly from the nose early in the second round, Parker maintained his composure, gauging Bakole’s attacks.
Then, the explosion. As Bakole pressed forward, Parker seized his opportunity. A thunderous overhand right, a punch loaded with power, connected flush on Bakole’s temple. Bakole stumbled, attempting to beat the referees count, but his balance was clearly compromised, and the referee, Steve Gray, halted the contest at 2:17 of the second round.
Parker had delivered a stunning technical knockout, a statement that resonated throughout the heavyweight division. “I‘m fit, strong, healthy,” Parker declared in his post-fight interview, his voice ringing with confidence.
“Who is next? How do I fight for the world title next?”
This victory, coupled with his recent wins against Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang, solidified Parker’s position as a top contender. His call-out of unified champion Oleksandr Usyk underscored his ambition to reclaim a world title.
Andy Lee’s pre-fight words proved prophetic: “The repertoire of boxing punches is pretty basic… Joe’s experience means he has seen it all by now, can see everything coming. He just needs to stay calm and if he wants to start fast, let him. Then you put the fire out and start your own.” Parker’s ability to adapt, stay composed, and capitalise on opportunities, as demonstrated against Bakole, showcased his readiness for the challenges ahead. He followed Lee’s instruction to “stay calm, structured, composed and get the victory. When the overhand right comes, when he walks in and attacks, that’s when you have to take your shot. That’s the best way to catch them when they’re coming in…”
Despite Bakole’s late arrival and less-than-ideal preparation, his willingness to fight and his aggressive style, reminiscent of his challenge to Jared Anderson, demanded respect. Parker’s victory was a testament to his resilience, strategic acumen, and unwavering determination.
