Martin Bakole’s trainer reacts to potential Bakole vs Makhmudov fight

At the Utilita Arena in Sheffield on October 11, Arslanbek Makhmudov (21-2, 19 KOs) got a much-needed victory against Dave Allen (24-8-2, 19 KOs) on a Matchroom Boxing card, live on DAZN.

It was a huge fight for both men, with bigger fights on the horizon. The Russian fighter boxed smartly throughout, winning by unanimous decision (115-111, 116-110 and 117-109).

The heavyweight division is thriving, and Makhmudov and Allen, alongside many others, are locked in or looking for big fights. One fighter mentioned in many conversations regarding big fights is Martin Bakole (21-2-1, 16 KOs). Bakole’s trainer, Billy Nelson, has given an honest reaction via his X account about a potential Bakole vs Makhmudov.

Martin Bakole’s trainer reacts to potential Makhmudov fight

Makhmudov had suffered two damaging defeats to Agit Kabayel and Guido Vianello. Before facing Allen, the Russian destroyed Ricardo Brown in one round. 

His win over Allen was impressive as he stayed disciplined and punched straight for the whole fight, controlling the distance and tempo effectively, leading to a unanimous decision victory (115-111, 116-110 and 117-109).

Billy Nelson revealed on his X account that he had been asked by reporters about Bakole-Makhmudov: 

“I’ve been asked by reporters today, would Martin Bakole fight Makhmudov next. It would be criminal, he is made for Martin.”

How Bakole matches up against Makhmudov

A fit and fully prepared Martin Bakole is a problem. He carries phenomenal fight-ending power and a high punch output, as proven in his destructive win over Jared Anderson.

He’s at his most impressive when he lets his hands go and puts together hurtful combinations. His vulnerabilities were exposed in his most recent outing – a majority draw against Efe Ajagba – where he was outworked for most of the fight.

Bakole vs Makhmudov would be a blink-and-you-miss-it type of fight, but if it’s made, the Russian should adopt similar tactics as he did against Allen, while Bakole will need to get inside and let his hands go to Makhmudov’s body.