Michael Hunter, the newly crowned WBA “Gold” heavyweight champion, is eager to prove himself against the two men who have defeated him in the past – Oleksandr Usyk and Martin Bakole. Despite being 35 years old, Hunter believes that he still has time to make a mark in the heavyweight division. After his recent victory over Cassius Chaney, Hunter is determined to secure rematches with both Usyk and Bakole to showcase his skills on a bigger stage.
Road to Redemption
In a recent interview with IFL TV, Hunter expressed his desire for a rematch with Bakole, stating that Bakole must go through him to advance in the heavyweight division. Bakole is set to face undefeated contender Jared Anderson in August, and Hunter believes that a rematch can happen if Bakole emerges victorious. Hunter is confident that Bakole will have to face him at some point to right his wrongs and prove his worth in the division.
Hunter’s loss to Usyk back in 2017 has fueled his desire for a rematch with the Ukrainian fighter. Reflecting on his past defeat, Hunter highlighted the challenges he faced leading up to the fight, including a year-long hiatus and limited resources for training camp. Hunter believes that a rematch with Usyk at the heavyweight division would yield a different outcome and provide a compelling matchup for boxing fans.
Future Prospects
While a potential rematch with Bakole seems more likely in the near future, Hunter is also open to facing other top contenders in the heavyweight division. With three consecutive wins under his belt, Hunter’s victory over Chaney has garnered attention and put him in the spotlight for bigger opportunities. Hunter has proven himself as a skilled boxer who is willing to take on tough challenges, making matchups against fighters like Agit Kabayel, Joseph Parker, or Joe Joyce enticing possibilities.
Michael Hunter’s quest for redemption and desire to secure rematches with his past opponents showcase his determination and resilience as a heavyweight contender. As he continues to pursue big fights and opportunities in the division, Hunter’s skillset and experience make him a formidable opponent for any top-tier fighter. Whether it’s a rematch with Bakole, a showdown with Usyk, or a matchup against other notable contenders, Hunter’s willingness to face the best in the division solidifies his status as a true competitor in the world of professional boxing.