Joseph Parker, former WBO heavyweight world champion, has set his sights on a possible matchup with Daniel Dubois. According to his trainer, Andy Lee, Parker is ready to fight for the IBF world title in February 2025. This option comes as a potential rematch between Dubois and Anthony Joshua is being considered.
Andy Lee, Joseph Parker’s trainer, recently confirmed that his team is prepared to face Daniel Dubois. This IBF title bout could take place on February 22, 2025. Parker wants to seize the opportunity in case the rematch with Anthony Joshua doesn’t go ahead.
Dubois, 27, defeated Joshua on September 21 in London. Although there has been talk of a rematch, plans are currently on hold due to Joshua’s physical condition.
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, revealed that the British boxer is not yet at 100%. Hearn mentioned that Joshua needs more time to recover from his recent loss to Dubois. Although the former champion desires a rematch, Hearn admits this isn’t an immediate possibility. Joshua, who is still experiencing physical discomfort, may not be ready by February 22, which could allow Parker to take his place.
Additionally, Hearn explained that Joshua prefers to wait to see the outcome of the rematch between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk. This fight between the heavyweight champions is scheduled for December 21 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Joseph Parker, 32, holds a solid record of 35 wins, 3 losses, and 0 draws. He has knocked out 23 of his opponents and is seeking a new shot at the world title. His last fight was on March 8, 2024, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he faced China’s Zhilei Zhang. Parker won by majority decision after 12 tough rounds.
Meanwhile, Daniel Dubois has a record of 22 wins, 2 losses, and 0 draws. Known for his knockout power, Dubois has ended 21 of his fights before the final bell. In his last bout, he knocked out Anthony Joshua in the fifth round, marking his first defense of the IBF title and establishing himself as a threat in the division.
Although the potential rematch between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois remains the main objective, Joshua’s quick recovery is uncertain. If this fight doesn’t materialize, Joseph Parker and his team are ready to seize the opportunity.
Joseph Parker’s trainer Andy Lee has declared that they would be ready to challenge Daniel Dubois for the IBF heavyweight world title on Feb 22nd, if the Anthony Joshua rematch doesn’t happen.
— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) October 29, 2024
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