Efe Ajagba produced a commanding display to stop former IBF world champion Charles Martin in the fourth round of his Zuffa Boxing debut in Las Vegas.
Fighting at the Meta APEX, the Nigerian heavyweight overwhelmed Martin with a barrage of right hands, forcing the referee to halt the contest with 1:50 remaining in the fourth round.
Martin made a sharp start, using his jab and lateral movement to control the distance. The American enjoyed success in the second round, landing body shots and a three-punch combination that briefly unsettled Ajagba.
Photo Credit: Imago
The momentum shifted in the third. With 1:07 left in the round, Ajagba landed a powerful right hook that sent Martin to the canvas. The former champion beat the count and survived the round but was unable to recover fully.
Just 23 seconds into the fourth, Ajagba struck again. Three consecutive right hands floored Martin for a second time, leaving him flat on his back.
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Although he rose, Ajagba pressed forward with sustained combinations, and the referee intervened as Martin struggled to defend himself.
Photo Credit: Imago
After the fight, Ajagba called for higher-ranked opponents.
“I’m ready for everyone in the top 10,” he said. “Nobody’s mentioning my name, but I’m in the top 10. I want to fight guys in the top 10, top five.”
Ajagba, currently ranked No. 8 by Ring Magazine, improved his professional record to 23 wins 15 by knockout from 25 bouts.
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The victory represents a return to winning form following his majority decision draw with Martin Bakole in Riyadh last May.
