Nigerian Olympian Efe Ajagba Makes Zuffa Boxing Debut Against Charles Martin

Ajagba looks to make a statement in the heavyweight division on Zuffa Boxing's biggest stage

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Efe Ajagba, a former Nigerian Olympian, is set to make his debut for the new Zuffa Boxing promotion in a heavyweight clash against veteran Charles Martin. Ajagba, who has overcome personal hardships to reach this point, is determined to prove he is more than just a knockout artist and put the heavyweight division on notice with an impressive performance.

Why it matters

Ajagba's fight against Martin represents a significant opportunity for the Nigerian boxer to showcase his skills on a major platform. As Zuffa Boxing continues to establish itself in the sport, this heavyweight matchup is seen as a key event that could help propel Ajagba into title contention and raise the profile of the promotion.

The details

Ajagba, 31, has built a reputation as a disciplined and technically skilled fighter, with his majority draw against Martin Bakole last year proving he can adapt his style beyond just relying on his power. For this fight, Ajagba is determined to avoid leaving the result in the hands of the judges, stating he will not "leave it to the judges anymore." Meanwhile, his opponent Charles Martin is a former IBF heavyweight champion with extensive experience at the top level of the division.

  • Efe Ajagba's Zuffa Boxing debut against Charles Martin is scheduled for February 15, 2026.
  • The Zuffa Boxing 3 main card, featuring Ajagba vs. Martin, is expected to start at 9 p.m. ET (6 p.m. PT).
  • The main event ring walks for Ajagba vs. Martin are expected to take place between 11 p.m. ET and 11:30 p.m. ET.

The players

Efe Ajagba

A 31-year-old Nigerian boxer and former Olympian who is making his debut for the Zuffa Boxing promotion. Ajagba has overcome personal hardships, including the loss of his father, to reach this point in his career and is determined to prove he is more than just a knockout artist.

Charles Martin

A veteran heavyweight boxer and former IBF heavyweight champion who will be Ajagba's opponent in this Zuffa Boxing debut fight. Martin brings extensive experience at the top level of the division.

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What they’re saying

“I lost my dad and I think about him a lot now that I'm here. Especially when it was not easy. When I was trying to focus on boxing, I had to work to help out the family.”

— Efe Ajagba (Vegas Sports Today)

“At first he didn't think I could make money doing this. But when my career started to get going, he was very proud. I'm proud of him too. He did what a man needed to do as a father to protect his family. I am here because of him.”

— Efe Ajagba (Vegas Sports Today)

“A draw was devastating. One judge scored it for me, one for him, and it's a draw? You have to make that make sense.”

— Efe Ajagba (Vegas Sports Today)

“They saw I'm not just a big puncher. I can box. Nobody wanted to fight me but Bakole. But I did it. They all know I can bring new stuff.”

— Efe Ajagba (Vegas Sports Today)

“This is the first heavyweight fight with Zuffa Boxing for a reason. Don't miss this fight. It's going to be an exciting fight.”

— Efe Ajagba (Vegas Sports Today)

What’s next

The winner of the Ajagba-Martin fight could potentially earn a shot at the Zuffa Boxing heavyweight title, further elevating the profile of the victor.

The takeaway

Efe Ajagba's Zuffa Boxing debut represents a significant opportunity for the Nigerian boxer to showcase his skills on a major platform and prove he is more than just a knockout artist. His personal journey and determination to honor his late father's legacy add an extra layer of motivation as he looks to make a statement in the heavyweight division.