Martin Bakole: Fury's sparring partner divides Ngannou fans
Martin Bakole is helping Fury prepare to face Ngannou, and Cameroonian fans are split over the Congolese boxer's decision
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The boxing world is holding its breath ahead of the fight between Englishman Tyson Fury, the WBC heavyweight champion, and Cameroonian Francis Ngannou, a former MMA champion, on 28 October in Riyadh. However, a new development has cast a shadow over the eagerly awaited bout: the involvement of Congolese boxer Martin Bakole as a sparring partner for Tyson Fury. The arrangement has prompted mixed reactions among Cameroonians.
Martin Bakole, a "traitor"?
As the pressure builds, some Francis Ngannou fans feel betrayed by Martin Bakole's role in Tyson Fury's training camp. In Yaoundé, some see the arrangement as a form of betrayal of a fellow African.
Alim, a die-hard Ngannou supporter, voices his dismay: "It's disappointing to see an African helping a foreign opponent fight one of our own champions. Martin Bakole should stand alongside his compatriot, not become a tool for his opponent". Achille is even harsher: "It's an affront to our continent. Bakole shouldn't take the side of the enemy. It's a betrayal of the worst kind".
A professional choice for Bakole
On the other hand, some Cameroonians see no problem with Bakole working with Tyson Fury. They regard it as a professional opportunity for the Congolese athlete. Passy, a sports enthusiast from Bafoussam, in western Cameroon, explains: "Martin Bakole has the right to earn a living and to seize the opportunities that come his way. It has nothing to do with betraying his continent. It's sport and business".
A trap for Fury?
Among Ngannou's fans, another theory is emerging. Some view Martin Bakole's presence in Tyson Fury's training camp from a strategic angle. They believe it could be a trap for the English champion. Mballa, a sports analyst based in Yaoundé, shares this view: "Let's not underestimate Bakole's presence. He is African, he knows Ngannou's power. Perhaps Fury thinks he can train against an African opponent, but it could backfire on him. Bakole has an important role to play here".
With the fight date drawing closer, the suspense remains intact. Cameroonians, like boxing fans around the world, are eagerly waiting to see how it all plays out in the ring on 28 October.
Arthur Wandji