Joseph Parker prepares to face Derek Chisora for the third time with WBO’s approval.

The heavyweight division is heating up once again, and this time, it’s Joseph Parker who may rekindle an old rivalry. The New Zealander has received the green light from the WBO to defend his interim heavyweight title against none other than Derek Chisora, setting the stage for a blockbuster trilogy fight. With both fighters holding victories and bad blood between them, Parker vs Chisora 3 could be a thrilling climax to one of boxing’s most compelling recent rivalries.

WBO Confirms Approval for Parker vs Chisora Trilogy

Speaking with Sky Sports, WBO president Gustavo Olivieri confirmed the organization’s willingness to approve the fight:

“Yes, Parker may defend his interim title against any of the top-15 WBO world-rated contenders.“

Currently, Derek Chisora is ranked No. 7 by the WBO, making him an eligible and legitimate challenger for Parker’s interim belt. This opens the door for Joseph Parker to reignite his rivalry with Chisora, a fighter he has already defeated twice in previous bouts.

A History of Grit: Parker vs Chisora I & II

The rivalry between Joseph Parker and Derek Chisora is one forged in grit and resolve. Their first encounter in May 2021 ended in a split decision victory for Parker, a result that many found controversial due to Chisora’s early knockdown and relentless pressure.

They met again in December 2021, and this time Parker left no doubts, winning by unanimous decision after dropping Chisora three times during the fight. Still, the British veteran’s sheer toughness earned him respect from both Parker and fans worldwide.

Despite going 0-2, Chisora has never shied away from a challenge, and his warrior mentality makes the potential third fight a highly marketable and fan-friendly bout.

Joseph Parker’s Interim Title and Future Ambitions

Fresh off securing the WBO interim heavyweight title, Joseph Parker is in a position of power. He’s already been named as the mandatory challenger for the winner of the highly anticipated Oleksandr Usyk vs Daniel Dubois rematch, set to take place on July 19 at Wembley Stadium.

However, with that showdown scheduled for later in the year, Parker is expected to make a voluntary defense of his interim strap in September. The WBO has now granted him the freedom to defend against any top-15 contender, including Chisora.

“I’m sure he would be [open to a third fight], yes,” said David Higgins, Parker’s promoter, confirming that the team is open to facing Chisora again.

Why Chisora Makes Sense as the Next Opponent

There are several compelling reasons why Derek Chisora is the ideal next opponent for Joseph Parker:

• Marketability: The rivalry has history and tension—two ingredients that sell tickets and pay-per-views.

• WBO Ranking: Chisora is ranked in the top 10, meeting the WBO’s criteria for a title challenger.

• Activity: With the heavyweight title picture currently focused on Usyk vs Dubois, a fight with Chisora keeps Parker sharp and in the spotlight.

In short, Chisora presents the perfect mix of risk and reward. A third win over the gritty Brit would further boost Parker’s profile and prep him for a shot at undisputed glory.

Derek Chisora: The Gatekeeper Who Won’t Quit

Derek Chisora has long been one of boxing’s most entertaining and fearless fighters. At 40 years old, he’s faced a murderer’s row of opponents, including:

• Tyson Fury

• Dillian Whyte

• Oleksandr Usyk

• Kubrat Pulev

• David Haye

Though his record now stands at 34-13, Chisora has never been counted out. Fans love his rugged brawling style, and he’s always just one big night away from shaking up the heavyweight division.

A third fight with Joseph Parker gives him a chance to finally settle the score—and possibly grab the WBO interim title, making him a shock contender for a world championship.

Queensberry Promotions Working Behind the Scenes

With both Parker and Chisora under the umbrella of Queensberry Promotions, negotiations for a potential trilogy are already underway. The promotion is also handling other major events, such as the Usyk vs Dubois rematch, which further positions them as the kingmakers in the current heavyweight landscape.

Frank Warren, who works closely with both fighters, has hinted that the Parker-Chisora trilogy is not only feasible but likely, especially if timing and finances line up.

September Target: Parker’s Timeline Confirmed

According to sources within Parker’s camp, the New Zealander is aiming for a September return, which would give him ample time to recover, train, and prepare for another war.

This timeline fits perfectly into the broader heavyweight picture:

• Usyk vs Dubois 2 concludes on July 19

• Parker vs Chisora 3 potentially lands in late September

• The winner of Parker-Chisora could fight for the undisputed heavyweight title in early 2026

It’s a smart play, keeping Parker active and visible while the champions sort out their business.

A Win Over Chisora Could Set Up a Mega-Fight

If Parker defeats Chisora again, it would mark his fifth consecutive win, following victories over:

• Simon Kean (KO)

• Deontay Wilder (UD)

• Zhilei Zhang (MD)

• Tony Yoka (TKO)

Such a streak would make him a more-than-legitimate challenger for the WBO, WBA, IBF, and Ring Magazine titles currently held by Usyk—or possibly Dubois, depending on the outcome of their rematch.

With Fury taking a break and Joshua fighting sporadically, Parker could become the most consistent heavyweight not named Usyk.

Could Chisora Shock the World?

While Chisora will enter the bout as the underdog, it wouldn’t be the first time he’s surprised the boxing world. His war with Carlos Takam, the tight decision against Usyk, and his late-career resurgence prove he’s not just a stepping stone.

With his back against the wall, Chisora is a dangerous man—especially if Parker takes him lightly.

Final Thoughts: Should This Trilogy Happen?

There’s a reason why trilogy fights hold a special place in boxing lore. From Ali vs Frazier to Gatti vs Ward, the best rivalries deserve a final chapter. And in the case of Parker vs Chisora, the script practically writes itself:

• A world title on the line

• A 1-2 history between them

• A stylistic clash between finesse and fire

Whether you’re a Parker fan or a Chisora supporter, this is a fight that delivers value, excitement, and championship implications.

Conclusion: Parker vs Chisora 3 Could Be the Fire the Heavyweight Division Needs

With the WBO’s approval, Joseph Parker’s willingness, and Chisora’s ranking, all the pieces are in place for a final clash between these two warriors.

It’s more than just a trilogy. It’s a moment for both fighters to cement their legacy. For Parker, it’s about proving he’s ready to become undisputed heavyweight champion. For Chisora, it’s one last stand against a familiar foe in a war fans didn’t realize they needed—until now.

September 2025 could be the month that defines both fighters’ careers.