Daniel Dubois wants to fight Joseph Parker next. The British heavyweight boxer is eager to settle unfinished business after their planned February bout in Saudi Arabia fell through due to Dubois' illness.
Dubois made his preference clear in a recent statement, pushing aside the possibility of an immediate rematch with Oleksandr Usyk. The Ukrainian champion had expressed interest in facing Dubois again following their controversial clash in August 2023, where Usyk won by a 9th round stoppage. That fight left a sour taste for Dubois, who believed he had dropped Usyk with a body shot that was ruled a low blow.
"I want to run it back [with Parker]. If they can get that fight on, that's the fight I want next," Dubois said. "It's unfinished business and it's left a bitter taste in my mouth."
Parker, who recently scored a quick stoppage victory over Martin Bakole, seems to be at the top of Dubois' list. The British fighter also mentioned Usyk and Anthony Joshua as potential opponents but emphasized his desire to face Parker first.
Dubois expressed his preference for fighting in England, specifically mentioning Wembley as a desired venue. He also hinted at a possible July date for his next fight, saying, "That's what I've heard."
The heavyweight showed a hunger to get back in the ring, stating:
"I just want to put someone to sleep again and get back out there and show the people that I'm the man and I'm ready to go and ready for everyone."
While Dubois has his sights set on Parker, there might be a potential obstacle in the form of a mandatory title defense. The IBF is expected to order Dubois to defend his title against Derek Chisora next month, which could complicate his plans to face Parker.
As the heavyweight division continues to heat up, fans will be watching closely to see if Dubois gets his wish for a showdown with Parker or if other matchups will take precedence.
