Eric Martel-Bahoeli has revealed he is targeting once more fight in the heavyweight division before retirement from professional boxing.
The Canadian boxer made history in 2008 when he became a heavyweight champion over Stephane Tessier by UD in round four of four.
Martel-Bahoeli was stopped by Adam Braidwood in the 5th round during a WBU heavyweight fight, in Quebec City, on Friday, February 24, 2017. In the hour following his defeat, he announced his retirement on social media.
“I can tell you it was my last fight. I’m retiring now. I’m happy with what I did. I will try to give passion to others in coaching,” Martel-Bahoeli posted.
Martel-Bahoeli confessed to having a hard time putting an end to his professional career for good. But in recent days, he will deliver his last career fight as part of an Eye of the Tiger Management (EOTTM) gala that will put featured heavyweight Simon Kean.
“My boxing career was fraught with pitfalls. That’s why I absolutely wanted to make one last fight at home and thus end my career on a positive note in order to be at peace with the sport.” Martel-Bahoeli said.
“It will be an honor for me to make my last fight alongside my great friend Simon Kean who, I am convinced, will avenge my defeat against Adam Braidwood sensational way,” he added.
The 37-year-old would like to retire as heavyweight champion, but is expected to face the winner of (13-0, 12 KOs) Simon Kean and Mexican Ignacio Esparza (21-2, 14 KOs).
Eric Martel-Bahoeli lost to Adam Braidwood in the 5th round during a WBU heavyweight fight in last year. (Source:www.youtube.com)
Kean will fight a defense fight for his IBO heavyweight title at the Videotron Center in Quebec City on April 7, 2018. He will then fight Braidwood (11-1-0, 10 KOs) in June. However, the location of this fight is not yet confirmed, but it could well be in the region of Mauricie, where Kean is from.
The 29-year-old boxer retained his IBO heavyweight title against American boxer Alexis Santos by KO in round 8 of 10, in Centre Gervais Auto, Quebec, Canada, in February 10, 2018.
Braidwood, meanwhile, will fight on March 31 at the Cabaret du Casino in Montreal during another evening presented by EOTTM against an opponent whose identity has not yet been revealed.
