Anthony Joshua’s Heavyweight Prospect Emanuel Odiase Maintains Undefeated Streak

Emanuel Odiase, the 6ft 8in heavyweight prospect under Anthony Joshua’s 258 Management, continues to make waves in the boxing world.

The former German amateur standout secured his fourth consecutive professional victory on Saturday night with a dominant fourth-round knockout against Kevin Masirika.

This bout took place on the undercard of the Felix Cash vs. Tyler Denny fight, further cementing Odiase’s reputation as a formidable force in the heavyweight division.

Kevin Masirika, with a record of 2-2, transitioned to professional boxing in 2023 after a successful stint as an English bare-knuckle boxing champion with the now-defunct Bare-Fist Boxing Association (BFBA). Despite dislocating his shoulder in his last fight against Blackpool’s Luis Wright in March, Masirika bravely took on the Odiase fight on short notice, showcasing his warrior spirit from the outset.

Odiase began the fight by establishing his jab, attempting to control the distance and pace. Masirika, fighting from a southpaw stance, initially looked to land his looping left hand but soon settled into a more defensive posture, relying on his experience to navigate the towering Odiase’s reach.

The dynamics of the fight shifted in the second round when Odiase landed a powerful right hand that buckled Masirika’s knees. Following up with a spiteful left hook, Odiase momentarily stunned his opponent, showcasing his power and precision.

Sensing the need to turn the tide, Masirika came out aggressively in the third round. He successfully smothered much of Odiase’s work, but was unable to land the combinations needed to claim the round. Despite his best efforts, Odiase’s superior technique and power continued to shine through.

Entering the fourth and final round with renewed energy, Odiase effortlessly evaded Masirika’s shots and landed a massive left hook that sent his opponent crashing to the canvas. Masirika was counted out, sealing a spectacular knockout victory for Odiase.

In the aftermath of his victory, Odiase expressed satisfaction with his performance, addressing critics who questioned his power as a heavyweight. “I’m happy with the performance because you hear all these people say ‘Has he got enough power for a heavyweight blah blah blah’. Well, I showed you tonight that I’ve got the power,” Odiase stated. He also emphasized the importance of his opponent’s health, saying, “Health comes first so I pray he comes out healthy.”

Eddie Hearn, promoter for Matchroom Boxing, praised Odiase’s talent and potential. “He’s a talented fighter, he’s come in a bit on the blindside without the amateur pedigree in the UK and the profile in the UK. But AJ and the team saw the quality in him through the sparring and they know how good he is,” Hearn remarked. He highlighted Odiase’s excellent punch selection and the brutal nature of the knockout, noting Masirika’s game effort despite the outcome.Emanuel Odiase’s continued success in the ring is a testament to his skill, power, and determination. As he maintains his undefeated streak, the boxing world eagerly anticipates his future bouts and the potential for even greater achievements. Under the guidance of Anthony Joshua’s 258 Management and with the support of Matchroom Boxing, Odiase is poised to become a major player in the heavyweight division.