Amir Khan Drops a Bombshell: Joseph Parker Tipped to Dethrone Anthony Joshua in a Shocking Rematch Twist?

Amir Khan, a former world champion and one of the most outspoken figures in boxing, has sparked controversy yet again with his latest bold prediction: Joseph Parker is the man who could dethrone Anthony Joshua in a potential rematch.

This shocking claim has sent waves through the boxing community, reigniting debates over Joshua’s true standing in the heavyweight division. With Parker recently revitalizing his career, Khan’s statement raises the question: Could Parker actually pull off the upset against Joshua?

Let’s break down the history, the analysis, and the possibility of this fight happening—and whether Khan is onto something or just stirring the pot.

The History Between Joshua and Parker: A Controversial First Encounter

To understand Amir Khan’s comments, we must first revisit the first fight between Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker in 2018.

• The bout was a highly anticipated unification match, with Joshua holding the WBA (Super), IBF, and IBO heavyweight titles, while Parker was the WBO champion.
• It was expected to be a clash of two undefeated warriors, but the actual fight disappointed many fans.
• Joshua won by unanimous decision (118-110, 118-110, 119-109), but the fight itself was criticized for excessive referee interference, which prevented Parker from engaging in inside exchanges.

Many fans and analysts felt that Parker wasn’t given a fair chance to fight his style. Even Parker himself admitted:

“I thought I could have done more, but every time I got close, the referee stopped us.”

This led to long-standing speculation that if Parker had been allowed to fight freely, the result could have been different.

Now, with Parker looking stronger and sharper than ever, Amir Khan believes a rematch would not go the same way.

Why Does Amir Khan Believe Parker Can Win?

1. Joseph Parker’s Career Resurgence

Since his loss to Joshua in 2018, Joseph Parker has undergone a significant transformation.

• He has added more power and aggression to his style, as seen in his dominant win over Deontay Wilder in 2023.
• Under the guidance of new trainers, Parker has become a more complete fighter with improved head movement, footwork, and counterpunching.
• Unlike in 2018, Parker is now more confident in exchanges and willing to take risks.

This new version of Parker is why Khan believes he has a genuine chance against Joshua in a rematch.

2. Joshua’s Recent Inconsistencies

Anthony Joshua is still a top heavyweight, but his recent performances have raised questions about his killer instinct and mental fortitude.

• Since losing to Andy Ruiz Jr. in 2019, Joshua has altered his fighting style, becoming more cautious and defensive.
• His back-to-back losses to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and 2022 showed weaknesses in dealing with slick and technical fighters.
• Even in victory, Joshua has not looked as dominant as he once was.

If Parker fights Joshua again, Khan suggests that Joshua’s decline and Parker’s improvement could lead to a shocking upset.

3. Parker’s Confidence & Mental Edge

Confidence is everything in boxing, and Joseph Parker now fights with a belief that was missing in their first fight.

• In 2018, Parker seemed too cautious and hesitant, possibly intimidated by Joshua’s aura at the time.
• Now, after big wins and training alongside elite fighters, Parker believes he belongs at the top.
• Unlike Joshua, who has had to rebuild himself, Parker is riding high on momentum.

If Parker enters a rematch with Joshua with a fearless mindset, it could change the entire dynamic of the fight.

Breaking Down a Potential Rematch: Who Has the Edge?

Let’s analyze how a rematch between Joshua and Parker would play out based on their current styles and abilities.

1. Power and Knockout Ability

✔ Advantage: Joshua

• Joshua remains one of the hardest punchers in the heavyweight division.
• He has finished elite opponents like Wladimir Klitschko, Kubrat Pulev, and Dillian Whyte with brutal knockouts.
• If Joshua lands clean, Parker could struggle to recover.

However, Parker has never been knocked out in his career, so durability may play a factor.

2. Speed and Mobility

✔ Advantage: Parker

• Parker has faster hand speed and better lateral movement, which could trouble Joshua’s more stationary style.
• Against Deontay Wilder, Parker showcased quick counters and sharp footwork to avoid big shots.
• If Parker uses similar tactics against Joshua, he could outbox him over 12 rounds.

3. Defense and Stamina

✔ Advantage: Parker

• Joshua has been visibly tired in the later rounds of fights, especially when he can’t control the pace.
• Parker, on the other hand, has shown he can maintain a high work rate and avoid taking too much damage.

If Parker can survive Joshua’s early aggression, he could take over the fight as it progresses.

4. Ring IQ and Adaptability

✔ Advantage: Joshua

• Despite his recent setbacks, Joshua has more experience in high-level fights.
• He has shown the ability to adjust his tactics, such as when he outboxed Roy Jr. in their rematch.
• If Joshua fights smart and avoids trading punches unnecessarily, he could secure another decision victory.

However, if Parker forces Joshua into an uncomfortable fight, Joshua’s ability to adapt could be tested.

What Are the Chances of This Fight Happening?

A Joshua vs. Parker rematch is very possible, especially considering the current state of the heavyweight division.

Why It Makes Sense for Joshua:

• A win over Parker would silence critics and prove he still belongs in the title conversation.
• If he loses, it could signal the end of his championship ambitions.

Why It Makes Sense for Parker:

• A victory would make Parker a two-time heavyweight champion.
• Beating Joshua would put him in line for even bigger fights, possibly against Tyson Fury or Oleksandr Usyk.

With Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing looking for the best financial opportunities for Joshua, a rematch with Parker could be an attractive option.

Final Thoughts: Is Khan Right About Parker’s Chances?

Amir Khan’s claim that Joseph Parker could beat Anthony Joshua in a rematch isn’t just wild speculation—there is a solid case for why Parker could pull off the upset.

• Parker has improved significantly since their first fight.
• Joshua has shown vulnerabilities and a declining aura of invincibility.
• A more aggressive Parker could push Joshua out of his comfort zone and force a grueling fight.

That being said, Joshua is still the favorite—his power, experience, and ring IQ make him a dangerous opponent for anyone.

Would Parker shock the world and dethrone Joshua in a match?

Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure—this fight would be must-watch television.