'Half Scottish' boxer and African prince lands megabucks Saudi fight vs Parker
HALF African prince, half Scottish heavyweight hope. One things for sure, Martin Bakole takes some missing. And he’s set for the biggest fight – and payday – of his life after ans…
Breaking
Sport
Boxing
HALF African prince, half Scottish heavyweight hope.
One things for sure, Martin Bakole takes some missing.
3
Martin Bakole defeats Jared Anderson to win the WBO International Heavyweight TitleCredit: Getty
3
Martin Bakole proudly wears his tartan shortsCredit: Getty
3
Trainer Billy Nelson with Ricky BurnsCredit: Kenny Ramsay - The Sun Glasgow
And he's set for the biggest fight - and payday - of his life after answering the call to replace the ill Daniel Dubois and take on Joseph Parker in megabucks Riyadh bout this Saturday night.
Congo-born, and of regal descent, Bakole left almost a decade ago now to start a new life in Greengairs, a small village on the outskirts of Airdrie.
He's a larger than life figure and no mistake - and he makes quite the team with respected boxing trainer Billy Nelson, who also worked with the likes of Ricky Burns for years.
Bakole backs himself - and has also helped the likes of Dubois and Joe Joyce with punishing sparring sessions in the gym.
Bakole has also helped Dubois and Joe Joyce tune up for bouts with taxing rounds in the gym.
He had been scheduled to face Nigerian contender Efe Ajaba in a final eliminator for a shot at Dubois in May, but will now take on former WBO champion Parker instead
He's got an excellent record (21-1, 16 KO) and was last in action back in August when he stopped highly-rated American heavyweight Jared Anderson in Los Angeles.
More to follow.
STAR SUSPENDED
Boxer Claressa Shields facing probe after testing positive for marijuana
On the box
Daniel Dubois vs Joseph Parker OFF days before fight with new opponent announced
BOX OF SURPRISES
Tyson Fury links up with Sir Alex Ferguson for 'breakfast of champions'
BIG SWITCH
I was working 6am shifts as an electrician, now I'm fighting for world title
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page
YOU MIGHT LIKE