Top Rank announced the signing of undefeated heavyweight knockout artist Efe Ajagba to a long-term promotional agreement. [Ajagba was formerly with Premier Boxing Champions]. Ajagba, 26, the Nigerian-born former soccer player, turned pro in 2017 after competing in the 2016 Rio Olympics. Ajagba will make his Top Rank on ESPN debut in 2020 on a to-be-determined bill. He has also enlisted the services of manager James Prince and head trainer Kay Koroma. [Ajagba has been managed by Shelly Finkel, whose ongoing role, if any, was not mentioned in the press release].

 

At 6-foot-6 and 240-plus pounds, Ajagba (13-0, 11 KOs) is one of the division’s most intimidating physical specimens, a natural puncher with six-first round knockouts on his ledger. He gained notoriety in August 2018, when his opponent Curtis Harper walked out of the ring one second after the opening bell sounded. The disqualification win ended Ajagba’s string of knockouts, and he would score four more knockouts before being taken the distance for the first time in his career. Ajagba last fought March 7th in Brooklyn, knocking out Razvan Cojanu in nine rounds.

 

“I made this decision to become a better boxer and to advance my career. That’s why I signed with James Prince and Top Rank,” Ajagba said. “When I return to the ring soon, you will see a new Efe Ajagba. Kay Koroma and I are working on my head movement and defense, as I seek to become a more well-rounded fighter.”

 

“Efe Ajagba is one of the most gifted young heavyweights I’ve seen in quite some time,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “He has immense physical tools and a great work ethic. I have the utmost confidence that we’re looking at a future heavyweight champion.”