Martin Bakole’s trainer Billy Nelson believes the Scotland-based fighter would defeat Deontay Wilder.
Wilder is regarded as one of the most dangerous fighters in heavyweight boxing because of his sheer punching power, and the former WBC champion could soon be a mandatory for the governing body once more.
Bakole meanwhile has 19 wins from 20 fights, and his biggest win is probably his 2022 victory against Tony Yoka, and is yet to face a truly elite fighter.
Nevertheless, when speaking to Sky Sports, Nelson said he thinks his charge is a contender to win
"There's absolutely no hesitation, if Andy Ruiz and Wilder doesn't get made, for Martin to fight Wilder," he said.
"Wilder says he wants to fight the best. Well, let's get No 1 and No 2 in the WBA [rankings]. Get that on in America on a pay-per-view card, and the winner moves on to a world title fight.
"Martin will stop Deontay Wilder. He's far too skillful for him and will eventually get to him."
Bakole and Wilder are the top two ranked fighters in the WBA, so after Oleksandr Usyk vs. Daniel Dubois next month, the pair could be set up for an eliminator, particularly if Wilder does not make a fight with Andy Ruiz, as ordered by the WBC.