Joseph Parker is the popular opponent to problem Daniel Dubois for the IBF world heavyweight title in February.
Dubois retained his world title with a shocking fifth-round knockout win over Anthony Joshua at Wembley in September and a lot of opponents are being thought of for a title defence in early 2025.
Joshua is not going to pursue a direct rematch because the scheduled date doesn’t match into his plans for subsequent 12 months, however WBO interim champion Parker has emerged because the main candidate to share the ring with Dubois.
The New Zealander has propelled himself again into world title competition with spectacular wins over Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang after a stoppage loss to Joe Joyce.
Image By Mark Robinson Matchroom Boxing
Image By Mark Robinson Matchroom Boxing
Image By Mark Robinson Matchroom Boxing
Parker is just not listed within the IBF prime 15 and the governing physique would nonetheless want to provide the 32-year-old the inexperienced gentle to turn out to be a challenger for his or her champion Dubois.
When requested about Parker, Dubois’ promoter Frank Warren instructed Sky Sports activities final month: “It’s got to be sensible and certainly for him fighting Daniel he fits the criteria. He’s re-established himself after Joe Joyce in a big way.”
Zhang and Martin Bakole have additionally welcomed the chance to struggle Dubois, whereas Fabio Wardley had been linked with a world title shot after his first-round knockout of Frazer Clarke.
