loser Anthony Joshua predicts Dubois’ defeat, publicly supports Parker ahead of the big match.
Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has publicly backed New Zealand’s Joseph Parker to defeat Daniel Dubois in their upcoming IBF world title fight in Saudi Arabia next month.
Joshua’s Vote of Confidence for Parker
Joshua, who defeated fellow Briton Daniel Dubois in his most recent bout with a performance that earned Dubois the “Knockout of the Year” award at The Ring Magazine awards in London, is among a growing number of boxing insiders who believe Parker is poised to become a two-time world champion on February 23.
Since losing his WBO world title to Joshua in Cardiff in 2018, Parker has earned Joshua’s respect by staging a remarkable comeback. Victories over Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang in unexpected upsets during last year’s Riyadh events further solidified Parker’s credentials as a contender.
Prominent boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, speaking to Sportsman Boxing, echoed Joshua’s sentiments: “I think this is a very tough fight for Daniel Dubois. Joseph Parker is in the form of his life. He’s worked so hard to get back to this position.”
Dubois Overlooking the Rejuvenated Parker?
Despite the high stakes, many in the boxing community believe Dubois and his team may be underestimating Parker. During a recent post-match interview following Oleksandr Usyk’s victory over Tyson Fury, Dubois unexpectedly called out Usyk, seemingly disregarding Parker’s threat in their imminent title fight.
Andy Lee, Parker’s trainer and a nominee for Trainer of the Year, views this oversight as an advantage. Speaking to The Stomping Ground, Lee said, “They’re making the same mistakes they always make. When Parker fought Wilder, it was all about Wilder versus AJ, and Parker flipped the script. He’s going to do it again.”
Dubois, however, denies any complacency. “First is Parker,” he told Sky Sports. “All eyes are on him.”
A Clash of Contrasting Styles
Dubois, known for his immense punching power, lacks the speed, reflexes, and footwork that define Parker’s style. Parker, who first became a world champion in 2016 by defeating Andy Ruiz Jr, has been diligently training at his camp in Dublin with Lee, refining his strategy to ensure victory.
Parker remains confident, stating, “We have a game plan, and when I step into the ring and execute it to the best of my ability, it’ll be a fantastic night for us.”
Dubois has experienced setbacks in his career, including a controversial loss to Usyk in Poland in 2023 and a stoppage defeat to Joe Joyce in 2020 due to a fractured eye socket. However, he has rebounded with impressive wins over Jarrell Miller, Filip Hrgovic, and a stunning victory against Joshua at Wembley last September.
The February 23 bout promises to be an electrifying encounter, with Parker’s resilience and experience clashing against Dubois’ raw power. As the boxing world eagerly awaits the outcome, one thing is certain: this fight will be a defining moment in both fighters’ careers.
