Martin Bakole Accuses Promoter Ben Shalom of Sabotaging His Boxing Career
Heavyweight boxer Martin Bakole, known for his work as a sparring partner with Tyson Fury, has launched a scathing public attack on his promoter Ben Shalom, accusing him of actively trying to "ruin his career". The 32-year-old Congolese fighter took to social media platform X to air his grievances, claiming Shalom is preventing him from fighting and earning a living.
Bakole's Explosive Allegations
Bakole, who sparred with Fury ahead of bouts against Dillian Whyte and Francis Ngannou, stated in his post: "For everybody asking what is happening with me. I am ready to fight anytime but one man is trying to ruin my career: Ben Shalom. I don’t understand why he is doing it." He further alleged that Shalom has been earning money from him for years while keeping him tied to a contract that his lawyer has confirmed is finished.
The heavyweight boxer, who last fought in May 2025 to a draw with Efe Ajagba and lost to Joseph Parker for the WBO interim heavyweight title in February 2025, expressed frustration at being blocked from competition. "I try to move on and he sends crazy emails to everyone blocking me from fighting and earning a living," Bakole claimed. "He is trying to scare me saying he will sue everyone if I fight and don’t pay him."
Boxxer's Firm Rebuttal
In response, Boxxer and Ben Shalom issued a statement asserting that Bakole remains under contract with the promotion. They highlighted their history of delivering major fights and securing career-high purses for the boxer, while also noting that they have worked to secure high-profile opportunities over the past year which Bakole either declined or was unavailable for.
"It is therefore disappointing to see these claims made publicly and as a result of third-party interference intended to cause damage," the statement read. "BOXXER remains fully committed to getting Martin back in the ring when he is next available to compete at the highest level."
Bakole's Defiant Response and Focus on the Future
Unmoved by the rebuttal, Bakole shared a screenshot of Boxxer's statement on his X account with a red cross drawn through it. He then posted a follow-up message, seemingly drawing a line under the public argument while maintaining his stance. "I want to make one thing very clear: I have always respected every team I’ve worked with and I remain focused on my career, my future, and fighting at the highest level," he wrote.
Bakole emphasized his priority is to stay active and take on big opportunities for the fans, stating: "My energy is on getting in the ring, proving myself, and becoming world champion." He concluded with a pointed remark: "The truth will always show itself through actions, not words. I’m ready for the next challenge. Let’s make the big fights happen."
This public feud highlights the tensions between the boxer and his promoter, with Bakole insisting he will not pay Shalom another cent and is ready to fight, while Boxxer maintains contractual obligations and a commitment to his career. The situation remains unresolved, casting uncertainty over Bakole's next steps in the boxing world.
