Joshua vs. Parker 2? Shocking Plan Revealed After Fury Dropped Out!
British heavyweight Anthony Joshua is currently in recovery mode after suffering a devastating fifth-round knockout at the hands of Daniel Dubois in September. The brutal loss at Wembley Stadium derailed Joshua’s hopes of regaining his position as one of the sport’s most dominant figures. However, according to his promoter, Eddie Hearn, the former unified champion could be eyeing a high-profile rematch with Joseph Parker as his next fight.
Hearn, speaking with Sky Sports, confirmed that Joshua is not yet training at full intensity due to lingering injury concerns following his loss to Dubois. This setback has forced Joshua to delay his return to the ring, but his team is already exploring potential opponents for when he’s fully fit.
“There was a niggle after the Dubois fight. He went back into camp, but he’s just not ready to start punching with the same ferocity that he needs to,” Hearn explained.
Tyson Fury Fight Falls Through—What’s Next for Joshua?
Joshua had been angling for a mega-fight with Tyson Fury, a bout that fans have long craved. However, those plans were shattered when Fury announced his retirement, leaving Joshua’s immediate future uncertain.
With the Fury fight no longer on the table, Hearn pointed out that there are two realistic blockbuster options that could reignite Joshua’s career:
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A rematch with Daniel Dubois, giving Joshua a chance to avenge his brutal loss.
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A showdown with Joseph Parker, a fighter currently riding a hot streak and making waves in the heavyweight division.
Joseph Parker: A Worthy Challenger for Joshua’s Comeback?
Joseph Parker, the former WBO heavyweight champion, has been on a red-hot run, putting himself in prime position for another title shot. With Dubois potentially tied up in negotiations to fight Oleksandr Usyk, Parker may become the most viable option for Joshua’s comeback fight.
Hearn acknowledged Parker’s impressive momentum, stating:
“Joseph Parker right now is on one of the hottest runs. If Dubois doesn’t fight Usyk, I’d like to see him fight Parker as well because Joe deserves a shot at the world heavyweight title.”
This potential rematch carries significant historical weight. Joshua and Parker first met in 2018, with Joshua securing a unanimous decision victory to unify the WBA, IBF, and WBO titles. However, Parker has drastically improved since then, making a rematch a much more competitive and exciting affair.
What a Joshua vs. Parker Rematch Means for the Heavyweight Division
A rematch between Joshua and Parker wouldn’t just be a personal redemption story—it could also have major implications for the entire heavyweight division.
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A Joshua victory would re-establish him as a legitimate title contender, putting him back in the conversation for fights against Usyk, Fury, or Dubois.
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A Parker win would cement his status as one of the division’s elite, possibly earning him a shot at the undisputed championship.
With the heavyweight scene currently in flux, this fight could serve as a gateway to another massive showdown—either a world title shot for Parker or a long-awaited trilogy with Usyk for Joshua.
The Million-Dollar Question: Is Joshua Ready for War Again?
One of the biggest concerns surrounding Joshua’s return is whether he can still compete at the highest level after suffering multiple losses in recent years. The former two-time champion has faced criticism for lacking aggression, with some questioning if he still has the hunger to reclaim his throne.
Despite these doubts, Hearn remains confident in Joshua’s mental and physical resilience, believing that the right opponent—such as Parker—could bring out the best in him.
“If there’s a big unification fight, undisputed, then Joe’s going to need another dance partner, and maybe it’s a Joshua rematch,” Hearn added.
Final Thoughts: Will Joshua Choose Parker for His Comeback Fight?
At this stage, Joshua’s next move remains uncertain, but the idea of a rematch with Joseph Parker is gaining traction. With Tyson Fury seemingly out of the picture and Daniel Dubois possibly facing Usyk, Parker emerges as a logical and exciting option.
For Joshua, this fight represents an opportunity for redemption—a chance to prove that he still belongs among the heavyweight elite. For Parker, a win over Joshua would be a career-defining moment, propelling him to superstardom and potential title glory.
With fight fans eager for an official announcement, all eyes are now on Joshua and Hearn. Will they take the Parker rematch, or does another surprise await? The heavyweight division is waiting for answers.
Can Joshua Handle Parker’s Newfound Power?
While Anthony Joshua convincingly defeated Joseph Parker in their first encounter back in 2018, a rematch could be an entirely different story. Parker has evolved significantly since that bout, displaying greater punching power, improved footwork, and a more aggressive style in recent fights. His recent performances against Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang have showcased a more refined version of himself—one that could pose a serious threat to a recovering Joshua.
Joshua, on the other hand, is coming off one of the most devastating losses of his career. His defeat against Daniel Dubois not only raised concerns about his durability but also reignited criticism over his defensive lapses and reluctance to engage in firefights. If he steps into the ring against Parker at anything less than 100%, he could be in for another brutal night.
The Psychological Battle: Does Joshua Still Have the Fire?
One of the biggest questions surrounding Joshua’s potential return is whether he still possesses the mental toughness and confidence needed to reclaim his former glory. Losses to Andy Ruiz Jr., Oleksandr Usyk, and Daniel Dubois have undoubtedly affected his psyche, and another defeat could permanently damage his career trajectory.
Parker, on the other hand, has never looked better. His momentum, confidence, and improved skill set make him a dangerous opponent for a Joshua who is still trying to find his footing.
With the heavyweight division constantly shifting, this fight could serve as a career-defining moment for both men. Will Joshua rise from the ashes, or will Parker complete his redemption arc and emerge victorious? The world is watching.
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