With exciting new developments from some of the biggest names in boxing, the scene is only getting hotter. Jermall Charlo, Subriel Matias, Martin Bakole, and Lawrence Okolie are all making movements that have the potential to change the sport. Let’s examine the most recent information on these fighters.
Bakole approaches the title shot.
Martin Bakole’s incredible victory over Jared Anderson in August has put him in position to win his first world title. Now that Bakole and Agit Kabayel have reached the last elimination stage, the IBF has mandated that the winner face Daniel Dubois for the IBF heavyweight title. After decisively eliminating Anderson in five rounds, Bakole solidified his place among the top contenders. In the meantime, Kabayel has advanced through the ranks thanks to strong victories over Frank Sanchez and Arslanbek Makhmudov.
After making headlines last month with his victory over Anthony Joshua, Daniel Dubois may face major consequences from this proposed bout between Bakole and Kabayel. There may possibly be plans for a rematch between Dubois and “AJ,” but Bakole’s ascent could cause problems.
The Heavyweight Glory of Okolie Eyes
Lawrence Okolie, who gave up his WBC bridgerweight title, is set to go up to the heavyweight division. The 31-year-old power puncher has declared his intention to participate in the most renowned division in boxing after making a statement earlier this year by stopping Lukasz Rozanski in the first round. Okolie, who won the WBO cruiserweight title from 2021 to 2023, is optimistic about his prospects in the heavyweight division. His earnest intentions are evident by his appeal for a top-five ranking in the WBC heavyweight rankings.
Following Okolie’s exit, Kevin Lerena has taken the complete WBC bridgerweight title, changing the dynamics of both divisions. The public is excited to watch Okolie’s performance against the best heavyweights.
Charlo Teases Coming Back
The long-awaited return of former WBC middleweight champion Jermall Charlo to the ring could be imminent. Since defeating Jose Benavidez Jr. in November 2023, the 34-year-old has not engaged in combat. But a new video that Charlo uploaded, in which he can be seen working out hard, has spurred rumours about his potential return. The caption made reference to a possible December 14th bout date in Houston, Texas, potentially on the undercard of Lamont Roach vs. Gervonta Davis at the Toyota Centre.
After losing his 160-pound championship defence to Juan Macias Montiel in June 2021, Charlo’s supporters have been impatiently expecting his comeback. If the rumours about him are accurate, his next fight could be a pivotal one for his career as he looks to take the middleweight title back to the top.
Matias Seeks Salvation
On November 9th in Puerto Rico, Subriel Matias will make his ring comeback, hoping to avenge his June defeat by Liam Paro. The 32-year-old now has two losses on his record after losing and forfeiting his IBF super-lightweight belt. Despite this, Matias is still a formidable opponent in the division having won 20 of his 20 bouts via knockout. With a rematch against Roberto Ramirez—a fighter William Zepeda stopped in 2020—Matias has an opportunity to resume his winning ways and assert his supremacy.
At the Ruben Rodriguez Coliseum in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, this bout will be the main event, and Matias will be keen to show that he still ranks among the best in the super-lightweight class.
