Martin Baculli is ready to step in as the next challenger to world heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois, according to title promoter Ben Shalom.
Dubois is expected to return to the ring in February after scoring a nail-biting knockout win over Anthony Joshua in September to retain ownership of the IBF heavyweight belt.
An opponent for the Briton has not yet been confirmed, leaving challenger Bacoli as one of the few viable contenders with the pedigree to deserve such an opportunity.
“Martin Baculli is ready to face Daniel Dubois next,” Shalom told Sky Sports News.
“If they are looking for an opponent for Daniel in February, Martin is ready to step in.”
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Speaking on Toe2Toe, one of Daniel Dubois’ men, Kieran Farrell, looks forward to what’s next for his fighter.
Pakul, who is ranked fourth in the IBF rankings, is currently one match away from being ordered as a mandatory challenger for Dubois’ belt.
The Congolese fighter has been ordered to face No. 3 seed Ajit Kapayel in a final eliminator bout for the IBF title, with the shows postponed until November 14 as the two sides look to reach an agreement.
“Martin is the future of the heavyweight division,” Shalom said. “He is now closing in on his world title shot.”
“Once he gets it, there’ll be no stopping him. He’s defeated Daniel Dubois and then he can unify the division.”
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Following his stunning knockout win over Jared Anderson, Gary Logan says he would like Martin Bakool to fight either Zhili Zhang or Joe Parker next.
Pacoli has put in an impressive string of performances with knockout wins over Carlos Takam and Jared Anderson, the latter in August, taking his professional record to 21-1.
Shalom added: “Daniel Dubois is a great fighter. He really impressed me with his performance against Anthony Joshua.
“I’m not surprised that AJ doesn’t want to fight him again – but Martin Pacall is a different animal.
“There’s a reason he’s the most avoided man in heavyweight boxing. He’ll be too strong and too skilled for Dubois.
“After the Anderson fight, people are finally starting to pay attention to him. I think he’s the guy to beat at heavyweight.
“The IBF title is his focus. Kabyle is scheduled to fight next for mandatory status. Once he wins the IBF title, he will come for all the belts.”
