Highlights! Joseph Parker obliterates 315-pound Martin Bakole with early knockout | Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2

Dan Hiergesell is an expert voice who serves as MMAmania.com's weekend editor, covering mixed martial arts (MMA) for more than 15 years, getting featured on programs such as Countdown to UFC and SiriusXM Fight Club, among others.

Joseph Parker left nothing to the imagination earlier today (Sat., Feb. 22, 2025) at “Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2” LIVE on DAZN pay-per-view (PPV) from inside Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, stopping fellow heavyweight Martin Bakole with a violent second-round knockout.

This heavyweight co-main event came together just a few days ago after IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois fell ill and was forced to withdraw from a showdown with Parker. In stepped Bakole, who traveled half way across the world to get to Saudi Arabia in time. The fighter from Congo came into Saturday massively overweight and considerably out of shape because he didn’t find out he was fighting until Thursday of this week.

Parker, who holds the WBO interim heavyweight title, was expected to take care of business against Bakole. However, when heavyweights start throwing anything can happen, which is why boxing fans were still excited for the late-notice matchup.

It didn’t take Parker long to find his range and unload a powerful right hand. Bakole was exchanging at the same exact time which left himself open to be hit. Parker’s punch slammed into the top of Bakole’s head and sent him into a tizzy. Bakole eventually fell to the canvas and the fight was waved off.

This victory pushes Parker’s current win streak to six and sets him up for a massive heavyweight fight his next time out, which is likely to take place against Dubois. You can check out Parker’s second-round knockout over Bakole below and let us know who he should fight next!

For complete ‘Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2’ results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.