This is not a great heavyweight fight. It’s watchable, raucous entertainment centered around two flawed characters, one of whom is nearing the end of his life and the other who’s still grappling with the same questions he’s been asking for years. The pairing feels well thought out for a new promotion trying to establish an identity.

Martin is a former titleholder whose best nights are long gone. He still brings name recognition, a belt on his resume, and the ability to make fights look serious without asking for much in return. This combination is valuable for a card that is meant to be spent, not analyzed.

Ajagba remains the greater curiosity. He was severely exposed by Frank Sanchez in 2021, a one-sided fight that took away the idea that size and power alone could carry him through. He has remained active since, winning five races, but his progress has been uneven. The Battle of Guido Vianello is not remembered for the fact that it settled anything definitively. It was hard work, messy in places, and did little to quell suspicions about Ajagba’s ceiling.

All in all, this fight does not guarantee improvement or long-term results. It promises communication, tension, and the possibility of something blunt happening before the flaws become overwhelming. This is no accident.

It was a smart early move for Zuffa. An easily recognizable name. A heavyweight that still arouses curiosity. Disadvantages are limited. There’s just enough unpredictability to keep viewers watching. It tells you that the promotion knows its direction, at least for now.

Ajagba’s fight with Martin isn’t about clarifying the heavyweight division. It’s designed to pass the time loudly and keep people engaged. As an introduction to how Zuffa makes the cards, this message is clear.

As far as silly heavyweight entertainment goes, it should deliver exactly that.