Efe Ajagba stops former heavyweight champion Charles Martin in fourth-round in statement victory in Las Vegas
By Marko Tankosic
SME News Balkan. Efe Ajagba delivered a brutal statement victory in Las Vegas, stopping former IBF heavyweight champion Charles Martin in the fourth round to strengthen his claim as a genuine world title contender.
The Nigerian powerhouse (21-1-1, 15 KOs) overwhelmed Martin with relentless pressure and devastating right hands, forcing referee Thomas Taylor to halt the contest after a second knockdown left the American slumped helplessly against the ropes.
Ajagba’s Power Too Much for Former Champion
Facing former IBF titleholder Charles Martin, Ajagba showed both patience and precision before unleashing his trademark power.
After a competitive opening round, Martin found success in the second with sharp left hands and quicker combinations. However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the third when a crushing right hook from Efe Ajagba sent Martin to the canvas.
Ajagba followed up with a sustained assault that had Martin trapped on the ropes. In the fourth round, another heavy knockdown set the stage for a clinical finish as three thunderous right hands forced the stoppage.
Heavyweight Rankings Shake-Up
Ajagba entered the bout already positioned inside the top 15 of the world heavyweight rankings, and this performance will likely push him closer to the elite tier of the division.
The 29-year-old added significant muscle mass during training camp, increasing his physical presence without sacrificing punching speed. His improved conditioning and composure were evident as he broke down a seasoned former champion.
“I’m ready to fight anyone in the division,” Ajagba declared after the fight. “I’m ranked in the top 10, but no one is saying my name.”
Martin’s Decline Continues
For Martin, the loss marks another setback in a turbulent second phase of his career. Once a world champion, he now finds himself slipping further from contention after suffering multiple defeats in recent outings.
While Ajagba’s trajectory is clearly upward, Martin faces serious questions about his future at the highest level of heavyweight boxing.
A Statement Win in Las Vegas
This emphatic knockout follows Ajagba’s previous displays of knockout power, including his stoppage victory over Joseph Goodall in 2023. With momentum building and confidence high, Ajagba has firmly reinserted himself into the heavyweight title conversation.
The heavyweight division may have a new force demanding attention — and after this performance, it will be difficult to ignore his name any longer.
