Franco-Camerounian Carlos Takam has been competing in the heavyweight division for more than 15 years. He's faced some of the best fighters in the world, such as Anthony Joshua, Joseph Parker, Alexander Povetkin and Derek Chisora. He's also been involved in many humanitarian projects throughout Africa, especially in his native Cameroon.

Takam born in Douala, Cameroon, on December 6th, 1980, started boxing at the age of 13, inspired by his uncle who was a professional boxer. He moved to France when he was 18 and joined the French national team. He won several amateur titles, including the African Games gold medal in 2003 and the Mediterranean Games silver medal in 2005.

He turned pro in 2005 and quickly climbed up the ranks of the heavyweight division. He won his first regional title, the WBO Africa belt, in 2009. He then captured other belts such as the WBC Silver International, WBF World and IBF Inter-Continental titles. He also became a French citizen in 2011.

Takam's biggest challenge came in October 2017 when he faced Anthony Joshua for the WBA and IBF world titles at Principality Stadium in Cardiff. Takam took the fight on short notice after Kubrat Pulev pulled out due to injury. Despite being much smaller than Joshua (1.87 m vs 1.98 m), Takam gave a brave performance and troubled Joshua with his mobility and durability. However, he was stopped by the referee in the tenth round after suffering a cut above his right eye.

Takam didn't quit after the defeat to Joshua and continued to pursue his dream of becoming a world champion. He bounced back with two wins over Senad Gashi and Fabio Maldonado before facing another British contender, Joe Joyce, at Wembley Arena in July 2021. Takam hung tough with Joyce for five rounds with his varied attacks but was caught by a left hook followed by a right hand that staggered him early in the sixth round. Joyce then unleashed a barrage of punches that forced the referee to stop the fight.

Takam protested against this decision but accepted it with respect and dignity. He congratulated Joyce for his victory and expressed his desire to fight again soon. He also thanked his fans for their support and said that he was proud to represent Cameroon and Africa.

Takam's pride for his roots is not only shown inside the ring but also outside of it. He has been involved in several humanitarian projects that aim to help children and young people in Africa through education, health care and sports development. He's created his own foundation called "Carlos Takam Foundation" which supports schools, orphanages and hospitals in Cameroon.

He has also partnered with other organizations such as "Africa Rise", "Sport en Commun" and "Boxing for Peace" to promote peace, social cohesion and economic development through boxing across Africa.

With his recent dominant vicotry over Tony Yoka putting him right back in the top heavyweight mix, Carlos Takam will continue to be an example of a boxer who combines passion, courage and generosity both inside and outside of the ring.

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