The IBF had ordered a final eliminator fight between Agit Kabayel and Martin Bakole, with the winner set to challenge IBF champion Daniel Dubois. But that fight has already fallen apart, and Kabayel isn’t holding back about why.
Taking to Instagram, Kabayel dismissed claims from Bakole’s trainer Billy Nelson, who had suggested Kabayel was to blame for the fight’s collapse. Kabayel made it clear who he thinks caused the fallout: “It wasn’t me, just so the fans know. I’ve never avoided a fight. I have never ducked anyone. I’ve always wanted to box the best in the world,” he said in a video.
Kabayel explained that Saudi organizers were on board but claimed Bakole derailed negotiations with excessive demands. “Bakole wanted too much money, and the fight was on thin ice. I kept hearing they were negotiating with Bakole, but it didn’t happen because he was too stubborn and greedy,” he added.
Despite the setback, Kabayel announced he’s back in training and hinted at major updates soon. Rumors point to a February return in Riyadh
Unfortunately I’m hearing Ajit Kabayal will be joking the long line of top fighters who don’t want to fight Martin, real shame has it would have been a good fight.
— Billy Nelson (@L2Box1) November 14, 2024