AFCON 2025
Nigerian heavyweight contender Efe Ajagba delivered a statement performance on Sunday night at Zuffa Boxing 03, stopping former IBF world champion Charles Martin via technical knockout in the fourth round.
The bout served as the main event at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas. Ajagba, known for his heavy hands and physical pressure, clearly asserted his power as the fight unfolded.
After a competitive first two rounds, Ajagba began to take control late in round three, landing a heavy right that sent Martin to the canvas. The former champion rose but looked unsteady. Early in the fourth, Ajagba again dropped Martin with a punishing right hand. A barrage of follow-up shots prompted referee Thomas Taylor to stop the fight at 1:11 of Round 4, giving Ajagba the TKO victory.
The win improves Ajagba’s professional record to 21-1-1, with 15 stoppages, and marks his most emphatic victory in recent years. Speaking after the fight in the ring, Ajagba said he was putting the heavyweight division “on notice” and that he’s ready to take on top contenders.
The pay was not right, That’s why I moved on from that fight. That moment was a big factor in my [eventually] signing with Zuffa when the opportunity was presented to us.
Ajagba’s power and finish against a seasoned opponent like Martin underline his rising status in the heavyweight ranks. With his strength and straightforward style, many observers now see him as one of the fighters poised for bigger opportunities in the division.
