Efe Ajagba Edging Stephen Shaw May Be Enough for a Title Opportunity
Efe Ajagba (17-1, 13 KOs) squeezed out a close decision win over substitute opponent Stephan Shaw (18-1, 13 KOs) at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino in Verona, New York. There was a lot at stake for Ajagba. A loss meant a complete reset in his career, while a win could result in big fight opportunities later this year.
Ajagba got off to a slow start as he had problems dealing with the jab and movement of Shaw. At the midway point, Ajagba began applying more pressure and landing more punches. Ultimately, it was the aggression of Ajagba that led him to a unanimous 96-94 victory in a fight that had the crowd booing at the final bell.
IN LINE FOR A WORLD TITLE SHOT?
Two potential high-profile matches are possible. Option one could be a match with reigning WBA Regular heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois, who is coming off a tough third-round stoppage win over Kevin Lerena in December 2022.
The other option could be against WBO Interim champion Joe Joyce who, in his last outing, knocked out one-time WBO champion Joseph Parker in eleven rounds in September 2022.
During the post-fight interview, Ajagba said that he wants to go back to the gym, when asked if he was ready for the elite in the heavyweight division. It’s a sign that he knows he has more work to do. Although Ajagba is in a position to face either Dubois or Joyce, his performance against Shaw left a lot to be desired.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
