Daniel Dubois eyes Oleksandr Usyk rematch after Joseph Parker showdown

Daniel Dubois has set his sights on facing Oleksandr Usyk, the unified heavyweight champion, but first, he must overcome Joseph Parker in their IBF heavyweight title clash. Scheduled for February 22 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the bout could be a pivotal moment for both fighters. While Dubois has boldly declared his ambitions, Parker warns him not to look too far ahead.

Dubois’ Ambitions: Usyk Is the Target

Riding high on his recent success, Daniel Dubois, the 27-year-old British heavyweight contender, is eager to take on Oleksandr Usyk. Dubois made waves in December when he entered the ring after Usyk’s victory over Tyson Fury, issuing a public challenge to the Ukrainian star.

“This is showbusiness—it’s all about making noise,” Dubois said at a pre-fight press conference. “I’ve got to get through [Joseph Parker], but I’m ready for Usyk. I’m on a roll, so bring it on.”

Dubois, ranked No. 3 among heavyweights by ESPN, has plenty of momentum. His emphatic fifth-round knockout of Anthony Joshua in September 2024 showcased his power and ability to compete at the highest level. Dubois floored Joshua multiple times in that fight, establishing himself as one of the division’s most dangerous punchers.

Parker’s Warning: Stay Focused

Joseph Parker, a former world champion and Dubois’ opponent, isn’t taking the challenge lightly. Ranked No. 4 by ESPN, Parker sees this as an opportunity to reclaim a world title and re-establish himself as a top heavyweight contender.

“You might be looking too far ahead,” Parker said, addressing Dubois’ focus on Usyk. “You’ve got a fight in front of you right now. He’s sky high at the moment, but it’s all going to stop on February 22.”

Parker has steadily rebuilt his career following a 2022 loss to Joe Joyce. Recent victories over elite opponents, including an upset win against Deontay Wilder in December 2023 and a dominant showing against Zhilei Zhang in March 2024, have cemented Parker’s resurgence. With a record of 35-3 and 23 knockouts, Parker believes he has the experience and tools to stop Dubois’ rise.

“I feel like I’ve only just begun,” Parker said. “I’ve got everything right now, and you’re in for a treat.”

The Stakes: More Than a Title

The February 22 bout is more than just an IBF heavyweight title defense for Dubois—it’s a defining moment for both fighters. For Dubois, a win would strengthen his claim as a top heavyweight contender and bring him closer to a coveted fight against Usyk. For Parker, it’s a chance to become a two-time world champion and solidify his place among the sport’s elite.

Dubois’ aggressive style and devastating power will face a stern test against Parker’s resilience and tactical expertise. While Dubois’ future ambitions are clear, Parker’s warning reminds him that overlooking a proven veteran could derail his plans.

A Crucial Fight for Both Careers

As Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker prepare for their heavyweight clash, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Dubois’ public challenge to Oleksandr Usyk has added intrigue, but Parker’s recent success and experience make this a difficult hurdle to clear.

A victory for Dubois would validate his status as a leading contender and bring him one step closer to a career-defining showdown with Usyk. A win for Parker, a win would mark a dramatic comeback and reinforce his position as one of the division’s top fighters.

With both men looking to make a statement, February 22 promises to be a defining moment in the heavyweight division—one that could reshape its landscape heading into 2025.