Tony Yoka feels 2021 Is the year to make his move!
When it comes to heavyweight Tony Yoka (9-0, 7 KOs), the talent is obvious. For anyone who has seen him fight, it is understandable why he is such a highly thought-of prospect. Given his potential, there is general excitement about his potential and future. But in this sport, it is all about elevation.
On March 5 he will face Joel Tambwe Djeko (17-2-1, 8 KOs) at the H Arena in Nantes, France for the vacant European Heavyweight championship. Many feel Yoka is ready to take the next step in his career. The 28-year-old from Paris, France agrees.
ALL ABOUT PROGRESSION
As Yoka said during an interview with SB Nation, 2021 is a big year. He is looking to move from a talented prospect to a legit contender.
“I’m the most complete heavyweight in boxing. This year will be so important for my career. If I win this fight, I’ll be looking at some of the guys in the top 10 for a fight around September. I’m ready now to make my move.
It’s probably too soon and unviable for me to get in there with the ‘big three’ [Deontay Wilder, Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury] but I’ll be looking at the level below — Joe Joyce, Dillian Whyte, or Derek Chisora.”
This is a fighter who is drawing interest outside of his native France. Top Rank signed the Frenchman to a co-promotional deal with Top Rank in January of 2020.
Yoka was to make his United States debut in March of 2020. Unfortunately, it was canceled because of travel restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic. Hopes are that he can fight in the States at some point in 2021.
There is a logjam of talented up-and-coming heavyweights. They include Filip Hrgovic, Mike Anderson, Arslanbek Makhmudov, Efe Ajagba, and Bakhodir Jalovov. Yoka feels that he will be left standing on the top of the hill and separate himself from the rest of the pack.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
