Boxing experts are urging Joseph Parker to rematch Dillian Whyte.

In the wake of his impressive resurgence in the heavyweight division, Joseph Parker is once again making headlines. But it’s not just because of his recent performances—boxing experts are now urging the former WBO world champion to pursue a long-awaited rematch with British rival Dillian Whyte.

Their first encounter in 2018 was an action-packed battle that ended in a controversial unanimous decision victory for Whyte. Since then, both men have experienced highs and lows, but with both fighters now back in the win column, analysts believe the timing is perfect to revisit one of the most hotly debated fights of the last decade.

Parker’s Redemption Tour Gains Steam

Since his knockout loss to Joe Joyce in 2022, Joseph Parker (34-3, 23 KOs) has bounced back in spectacular fashion. The Kiwi heavyweight is currently riding a winning streak, having defeated the likes of Simon Kean, Faiga Opelu, and most notably Zhilei Zhang, whom he outpointed in a major upset earlier this year.

Parker’s improved aggression, sharper combinations, and renewed focus under coach Andy Lee have revitalized his career. Many now see him as a legitimate contender in a heavyweight scene that remains wide open with the recent retirement of Tyson Fury and ongoing title shifts.

But according to top analysts, before Parker sets his sights on another title shot, he should look backward—toward unfinished business with Dillian Whyte.

The Controversial First Fight

The first fight between Joseph Parker and Dillian Whyte took place in July 2018 at London’s O2 Arena. It was billed as a battle between two former world title challengers looking to stay in the championship mix. What fans got was a 12-round war filled with drama, knockdowns, and controversy.

Whyte dropped Parker in the second round with a headbutt-turned-punch that many felt should’ve been ruled a foul. In the ninth, Whyte dropped Parker again with a left hook. But Parker roared back in the championship rounds, flooring Whyte in the 12th and nearly stopping him before the final bell.

The judges scored it 113-112, 115-110, and 114-111—all in favor of Whyte.

Why Boxing Insiders Want the Rematch Now

Several prominent voices in the boxing world have called for a Parker vs. Whyte rematch, citing fairness, fan interest, and career trajectory.

Former cruiserweight champion Tony Bellew said on DAZN:

“That fight could’ve gone either way. Parker finished stronger, and if it was in New Zealand, he probably gets the nod. They both need a big fight right now, and this is the one to make.”

Boxing journalist Gareth A. Davies echoed those sentiments:

“Parker has rebuilt. Whyte is trying to do the same. It’s perfect timing. These are two guys on the fringes of the title scene. Whoever wins the rematch puts themselves back into the elite conversation.”

Even Parker’s own promoter, David Higgins, told Sky Sports:

“We’d welcome a rematch with Whyte. There’s a score to settle.”

Dillian Whyte’s Uncertain Future

Dillian Whyte (30-3, 20 KOs) has also had a rollercoaster career since that 2018 victory. After losing by knockout to Alexander Povetkin in 2020, he avenged the loss in a rematch. He then challenged Tyson Fury for the WBC title in 2022 but was stopped in the sixth round.

More recently, Whyte has faced legal and licensing hurdles, including a canceled fight with Anthony Joshua in 2023 due to a failed drug test, from which he was later cleared. Now cleared to fight again, Whyte is reportedly in talks for a return bout later this year.

A rematch with Parker, who is surging and cleanly active, could be the opportunity Whyte needs to re-establish himself in the rankings.

Fan Interest Remains High

The first Parker vs. Whyte fight was a Fight of the Year candidate, and fans have long called for a sequel. Social media is abuzz with support for the rematch, especially after Parker’s tactical brilliance against Zhilei Zhang and Whyte’s public commitment to returning strong.

On X (formerly Twitter), boxing fans have posted:

• “Parker vs. Whyte 2 makes perfect sense right now. The first was a classic.”

• “Let them run it back. No headbutts, no excuses this time.”

• “Parker’s improved. Whyte’s desperate. That’s a recipe for fireworks.”

What’s at Stake in a Potential Rematch?

A Parker vs. Whyte rematch wouldn’t just be a grudge match—it would be a career-altering crossroads fight. The winner could be next in line for a final eliminator or even a direct title shot, especially as the heavyweight belts continue to shift hands.

With Oleksandr Usyk recently defeating Tyson Fury to become undisputed and then vacating the IBF title, there’s massive opportunity for contenders like Parker and Whyte to re-enter the championship conversation.

Styles Still Make This a Must-Watch Clash

Tactically, the rematch would be fascinating. Parker has improved defensively and seems more confident in exchanges. Whyte remains a powerful, rugged brawler who thrives in chaos. If they meet again, the outcome could hinge on:

• Parker’s ability to avoid early damage

• Whyte’s cardio and punch resistance in the later rounds

• Whether the fight is held in neutral territory or in one fighter’s home country

Parker’s Perspective

While Parker hasn’t directly called for the rematch, he has acknowledged the controversial nature of their first meeting.

In a recent interview, he said:

“I thought I did enough in the last few rounds to get the decision. But boxing is subjective. If the opportunity to run it back comes, I’m all in.”

His promoter has also noted that Parker is “motivated to take meaningful fights,” and Whyte fits that category perfectly.

Whyte’s Response Still Unknown

Dillian Whyte has yet to publicly address the growing calls for a rematch with Parker. However, insiders say Whyte is actively exploring fight options and is open to any high-profile bout that puts him back on the map.

Given his competitive nature and their history, it’s hard to imagine Whyte turning down a second go with Parker—especially if the winner can leverage it into a title shot.

Final Thoughts: The Time Is Now

With both men in urgent need of a career-defining win and with unfinished business lingering from their first encounter, a Joseph Parker vs. Dillian Whyte 2 fight just makes sense.

It has the history. It has the narrative. And more importantly, it has the ingredients to deliver another explosive showdown.