Oleksandr Usyk beat the man who beat the man who beat the man. But even though he’s viewed as the heavyweight division's biggest and top dog, he still needs to find his next worthy challenger.

Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder fell by the wayside. So did Dillian Whyte and Kubrat Pulev. There are a few viable names that remain but in all likelihood, the winner of Daniel Dubois vs. Joseph Parker will receive the call.

On paper, The Ring’s No. 2 and 3 ranked heavies share a lot of similarities. Just a few years ago, both were left for dead following stoppage losses. Yet, the two have bounced back nicely. For Dubois, he’s the proud owner of the IBF title while Parker has pushed himself atop nearly every sanctioning body.

Usyk, of course, will be watching their February 22nd showdown. So too, however, will Martin Bakole.

“The winner, I’m ready to fight them after the Ajagba fight,” said Bakole to Seconds Out.

As Bakole eludes to, Efe Ajagba is up next. Although Usyk could be in line for the winner of Dubois vs. Parker, Bakole vs. Ajagba is an IBF eliminator.

Before 2024, Bakole (21-1, 16 KOs) wasn’t a known commodity. In fact, he was practically out of the heavyweight title picture. A knockout win over Jared Anderson, nevertheless, has him protruding from everyone’s mind.

Currently ranked No. 6 by The Ring, Bakole has big plans. A title crack later this year is probably his number one goal but matchups against Anthony Joshua or another big name would make him a happy man.

Landing a shot against one of the heavyweight division's stars is easier said than done but a matchup with either Dubois or Parker might be mandated if he takes care of business against Ajagba.

In terms of how he sees that February 22nd showdown playing out, Bakole placed one hand on his chin while putting on an inquisitive face. After taking some time to think it over, he gave his answer.

“I think Parker will win the fight.”