Unbeaten heavyweight contender Jared Anderson is gearing up for one of the most significant fights of his career against Martin Bakole this Saturday. During a recent press event, Anderson confronted fight promoter Eddie Hearn over a social media comment suggesting that Anderson's bout with Bakole is a "50-50 fight" and that he might lose. The 24-year-old, ranked in the top five by the WBC, WBO, and WBA, challenged Hearn directly, saying, "Don’t bet against me. Let’s make a wager."
Hearn responded, "As I’ve said in the media, you win this fight, you’re the real deal.” Anderson, confident in his abilities, replied, “All right, you’re going to find out." Anderson, from Toledo, Ohio, has been training intensively under the guidance of Tyson Fury’s cornerman, SugarHill Steward, in Florida, preparing for The Congo’s Bakole, who is slightly favored to win.
Anderson’s preparation for the fight has been meticulous, and he credits Steward for his thorough training methods. "(Steward) explains everything thoroughly, breaks down why he wants you to do it… my preparation was amazing," Anderson said. "We’re not playing no games. No slouches. Everybody’s being well-compensated. I love it. This is bringing the game back." The 24-year-old is also an ambassador for Saudi Arabia's Riyadh Season, which is sponsoring Saturday’s event at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles.
Jared Anderson Tells Eddie Hearn To Get His Money Up, Ready To Stand on Business: Watch
Despite recent legal troubles, including a November arrest in Ohio and a high-speed chase in Michigan in March, Anderson has remained focused on his career. He returned to the ring in April, securing a decisive victory over Ryad Merhy. Now, he is fully confident in his readiness to face Bakole, telling reporters, "Put some fucking money on it! I promise he’ll lose his money every time.”
As the fight approaches, Anderson is aware that an impressive performance will significantly boost his standing, especially with influential figures like Saudi Arabia’s Turki Alalshikh watching closely.
"I’m not here to play. I know what’s going on. (Bakole) knows what’s going on. I don’t need to do any talking. You’ve got to see me in the ring, Aug. 3, you’ve got to get in there with me."
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Image Credit: Sky Sports