By Flinster Austin
Published on 2024-04-10 03:21:37
Efe Ajagba, a quarterfinalist in the Rio 2016 Olympics, is set to showcase his potential this weekend as he faces Guido Vianello in a heavyweight challenge bout. The stakes in the heavyweight division have never been higher, with Tyson Fury, Oleksandr Usyk, and Anthony Joshua dominating the scene.
According to Hall of Fame matchmaker Bruce Trampler of Top Rank, heavyweights outside of the top three need to stay active and fight to stay relevant. Ajagba (19-1, 14 KOs) and Vianello (12-1-1, 10 KOs) will meet in the co-main event on Saturday night, with the winner looking to move up in the rankings.
At 29 years old, Vianello sees this as his opportunity to establish himself in the rankings as the top heavyweight contenders continue to compete at an elite level. Ajagba, ranked number four in the WBC, number nine in the IBF, and number 11 in the WBO, presents a tough challenge for him.
Vianello, a former Italian Olympian, has had a strong start to his professional career but suffered setbacks in 2020 and 2023. However, he has bounced back with two wins, including a first-round knockout in February. A victory over Ajagba could potentially set him up for a fight against Jared Anderson.
Ajagba, on the other hand, is looking to elevate his ranking and position himself for future opportunities in the heavyweight division. With his intimidating 85-inch reach, Ajagba is a force to be reckoned with inside the ring. Despite his formidable presence, he is known to be a respectful and pleasant individual outside of the ring.
Trampler compares Ajabga to heavyweight greats Sonny Liston and Joe Louis, who exuded fearlessness in the ring but were humble and friendly outside of it. Ajagba’s focus is on his career and his journey towards becoming a champion in the division.
As Fury, Usyk, and Joshua continue to dominate the heavyweight division, fighters like Ajagba and Vianello are looking to make a name for themselves and position themselves as contenders. The heavyweight division is at a critical juncture, and every fight is crucial for these fighters to advance in the rankings and secure their spot among the elite in the division.
The fight between Ajagba and Vianello this weekend is not only an opportunity for both fighters to prove themselves but also a chance for fans to witness the future of the heavyweight division unfold. With so much at stake, this bout promises to be an exciting and competitive matchup between two hungry and determined fighters.
