Boxing’s Best-Kept Secret? Why Everyone Wants Parker as Their Stepping Stone

In the brutal world of heavyweight boxing, contenders are always looking for the perfect stepping stone—an opponent with enough credibility to boost their resume, but one they believe they can beat. Joseph Parker has become that fighter.

Despite his impressive achievements, including a former WBO heavyweight title reign, Parker has been repeatedly overlooked. While he is skilled, durable, and experienced, he seems to be caught in a strange middle ground:

• Too good to be ignored

• Not seen as a major threat to the division’s elite

This paradox has turned Parker into the go-to opponent for rising stars and former champions looking to rebuild their careers. But is he really just a stepping stone, or is boxing underestimating him once again?

Joseph Parker: A Respected Yet Overlooked Contender

Joseph Parker’s career tells the story of a fighter who has never been outclassed but is constantly doubted.

Key Achievements

WBO Heavyweight Champion (2016-2018)—Defeated Andy Ruiz Jr. to win the vacant title.
Notable wins over Derek Chisora, Andy Ruiz Jr., and Hughie Fury.
Never been stopped—proved his durability against elite heavyweights.

Despite his resume, Parker is rarely mentioned among the division’s top-tier fighters, and instead, he finds himself in a gatekeeper role.

Why Fighters Target Parker as a “Stepping Stone”

Boxers looking to make a name for themselves or rebuild after a loss seem to gravitate toward Parker for one key reason: he offers credibility without being seen as unbeatable.

1. He’s a Former World Champion

Beating Parker adds weight to a fighter’s resume. Since he once held a major title, a win over him gives the illusion of defeating an elite-level opponent.

2. He’s Durable, But Not Seen as a Knockout Threat

Unlike power punchers such as Deontay Wilder or Anthony Joshua, Parker isn’t feared for his one-punch KO ability. While he has good power, he’s not viewed as a fighter who can end a bout with a single shot, making him a “safer” choice for opponents.

3. He’s a Technical Boxer, Not a Brawler

Parker is known for his clean, disciplined boxing style, which is effective but not overly intimidating. Fighters believe they can outwork or outmuscle him, making him an attractive opponent for those looking to showcase their skills.

4. He’s Tough, but Beatable on Points

Many of Parker’s losses have come via decision, meaning he isn’t someone who gets knocked out easily. However, fighters still feel they can outbox him over 12 rounds, allowing them to secure a victory without risking a dangerous war.

These factors combine to make Parker a prime target for top contenders and rising stars.

The Fighters Who Have Used Parker as a “Stepping Stone”

Several high-profile boxers have targeted Parker in their careers to either

• Gain credibility

• Rebuild after a loss

• Test their skills against an elite but “safe” opponent

Here’s a look at some of the most notable cases:

1. Anthony Joshua (2018) – Unification Fight

• Joshua faced Parker when he was undefeated and still WBO champion.

• The fight was AJ’s chance to unify belts and prove he could handle a technical boxer.

• Joshua won by decision, but Parker’s durability frustrated him—a rare sight for an opponent.

2. Dillian Whyte (2018) – Career-Defining Win

• Whyte was trying to build his case for a title shot when he faced Parker.

• The fight was a brutal back-and-forth war, but Whyte dropped Parker and edged him on points.

• This win boosted Whyte’s reputation as a dangerous heavyweight contender.

3. Joe Joyce (2022) – Proving He’s Ready for a Title Shot

• Joyce needed a big win to solidify himself as a title contender.

• Parker was chosen because he was respected, durable, and a former champion.

• Joyce stopped Parker in the 11th round, making a massive statement in the heavyweight division.

These fights show a pattern—Parker is used as the test for fighters looking to climb the rankings.

Can Parker Break the “Stepping Stone” Curse?

While Parker has been the measuring stick for others, he’s still very much in the game.

1. Recent Comeback Wins

• In December 2023, Parker dominated Deontay Wilder in one of the biggest upsets of the year.

• He showed a new level of strategy and discipline, proving he’s far from done.

2. Improvements in His Game

Parker has made key adjustments to his style, working on
Better defensive awareness—avoiding unnecessary exchanges.
Increased patience—picking his shots instead of rushing.
More effective counter-punching—using his boxing IQ more efficiently.

3. Future Opponents: Can Parker Flip the Narrative?

With the heavyweight division constantly shifting, Parker still has a chance to break out of his “stepping stone” role. Potential fights that could redefine his career include:

Rematch with Dillian Whyte—To avenge his controversial loss.
Clash with Oleksandr Usyk—a battle between two technical fighters.
Showdown with Tyson Fury—Parker has trained with Fury before, but a real fight would be massive.

If Parker wins one of these key fights, he could shift the perception from “stepping stone” to legitimate title contender once again.

Conclusion: Is Parker Boxing’s Most Underrated Fighter?

Joseph Parker has been overlooked and underestimated for years, yet he continues to compete at the highest level. Fighters target him as an opponent because he offers

• Name recognition

• A tough but winnable challenge

• A resume boost without major risk

But Parker is far from finished. With his recent resurgence, he has a chance to flip the script and prove that he’s more than just a stepping stone—he’s a real contender.

So the question remains: Will Parker finally get the respect he deserves, or will he forever be the fighter others use to launch their careers?

What do you think? Can Parker break the “stepping stone” label and become a world champion again? Let us know in the comments