Does Joseph Parker deserve an immediate Title shot against Oleksandr Usyk?

Joseph Parker has been on a career resurgence, proving his place among the elite in the heavyweight division. With dominant victories over Deontay Wilder, Zhilei Zhang, and Martin Bakole, Parker has built an undeniable case for a shot at the world title. However, due to the politics of boxing, his title aspirations remain uncertain.

The sudden withdrawal of Daniel Dubois from their scheduled IBF title fight has left Parker frustrated, as Dubois is now being fast-tracked into a unification bout with Oleksandr Usyk instead. With such a strong resume in recent years, should Parker be next in line for Usyk?

The Dubois Controversy: A Frustrating Turn of Events

Originally, Parker was set to fight Daniel Dubois for the vacant IBF heavyweight title. The bout, scheduled for February 2025 in Saudi Arabia, was an opportunity for Parker to reclaim championship status after years of climbing back up the rankings.

Unfortunately, just days before the fight, Dubois withdrew, citing a viral upper respiratory infection. This left Parker without a title shot and forced him into a last-minute matchup with Martin Bakole, an opponent who stepped in with just two days’ notice.

While Dubois’ withdrawal was disappointing, the real controversy began when it was reported that he was instead being lined up for a unification fight with Oleksandr Usyk. Parker, understandably frustrated, questioned the fairness of the situation.

“How can you set up Usyk vs. Dubois when he had a fight locked in with me?” Parker said. “I’ve been working so hard to get back to a title shot.”

Boxing promoter Frank Warren defended Dubois, calling the situation “perverse,” but emphasized that Dubois’ status as a rising star still made him an attractive option for a high-profile fight with Usyk.

This decision left Parker in an awkward position—despite arguably being the most deserving challenger, he was sidelined in favor of a fighter who had just pulled out of a scheduled bout.

Joseph Parker’s Career Resurgence: A Case for a Title Shot

Despite the setback, Joseph Parker’s recent resume speaks for itself. Over the past year, he has compiled a remarkable win streak, defeating some of the toughest names in the division.

Parker’s Dominant Win Over Deontay Wilder

Parker’s biggest statement came when he defeated former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder in December 2023.

The fight was expected to be a Wilder knockout showcase, but Parker outclassed him with superior footwork, defense, and a tactical approach that neutralized Wilder’s devastating right hand. The unanimous decision victory not only shocked fans but also re-established Parker as a legitimate contender.

The Comeback Victory Over Zhilei Zhang

In March 2024, Parker faced another dangerous opponent in Zhilei Zhang, a Chinese powerhouse known for his knockout power.

Despite suffering two knockdowns, Parker showcased his resilience and outboxed Zhang in the later rounds, securing a majority decision win. This victory gave Parker the WBO interim title, placing him one step closer to a world championship opportunity.

The Destruction of Martin Bakole

After Dubois pulled out of their fight, Martin Bakole stepped in on just two days’ notice.

Even with minimal preparation, Parker obliterated Bakole in two rounds, dropping him with a crushing right hand that forced the corner to stop the fight.

This dominant performance only strengthened his case for a title shot.

Boxing Politics: The Roadblock to Parker vs. Usyk

Parker has done everything necessary to earn a world title fight, but boxing politics often dictate otherwise.

The Push for Usyk vs. Dubois

The boxing world is buzzing about a potential Oleksandr Usyk vs. Daniel Dubois unification fight.

With Usyk currently holding the WBA, WBC, and WBO heavyweight titles and Dubois being positioned as the IBF titleholder, a unification bout would create a single undisputed champion.

While that matchup is commercially appealing, it unfairly sidelines Parker, who was originally scheduled to fight Dubois.

The Role of Saudi Boxing Chief Turki Alalshikh

With Saudi Arabia playing a major role in hosting top boxing events, Turki Alalshikh, the country’s boxing chief, has significant influence over matchmaking decisions.

Parker is hoping that fan demand and pressure from the boxing community will convince Alalshikh to push for Parker vs. Dubois before any Usyk fight takes place.

“I just want what’s fair,” Parker said. “I deserve my title shot. Let me fight Dubois first.”

How Parker Matches Up Against Usyk

If Parker does get his long-awaited shot at Usyk, how would the fight play out?

Speed and Movement

Usyk is widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted heavyweights, with elite footwork and superior agility.

However, Parker has shown significant improvements in his movement, particularly in his wins over Wilder and Zhang. His ability to close distance and cut off the ring would be crucial against Usyk.

Power and Durability

Parker has displayed underrated power, especially in his recent fights. While not a one-punch knockout artist like Wilder, he has the ability to wear opponents down and land heavy shots over time.

His chin has also proven to be durable, surviving knockdowns against Zhang and absorbing shots from Wilder. Against Usyk, Parker would need to use controlled aggression to capitalize on moments where he could land meaningful punches.

Conditioning and Stamina

Usyk is known for his elite cardio, often outworking bigger opponents in the later rounds. Parker’s conditioning has improved, but he would need to match Usyk’s relentless pace to be competitive.

What’s Next for Parker? Possible Fight Scenarios

If Parker doesn’t get an immediate shot at Usyk, what are his other options?

Parker vs. Dubois (Rescheduled)

If public and promoter pressure is strong enough, Parker could still secure the fight he was originally promised against Dubois.

A win would leave no doubts about his title-shot credentials.

Parker vs. Anthony Joshua

With Anthony Joshua back in the title picture, a rematch between him and Parker could be another massive fight.

The two previously fought in 2018, with Joshua winning by unanimous decision. A rematch would not only settle old scores but also put the winner in line for a title fight.

Parker vs. Filip Hrgović

Filip Hrgović, another highly ranked contender, is looking for a defining fight. If Parker needs to stay active while waiting for a title opportunity, a bout with Hrgović could make sense.

Conclusion

Absolutely!

Joseph Parker has defeated elite opponents, overcome setbacks, and earned his place at the top. The fact that Dubois pulled out of their fight yet still might leapfrog Parker into a unification bout is an unfair twist of boxing politics.

Whether Parker gets his shot at Usyk directly or has to go through Dubois first, he deserves the opportunity to fight for a world title.

Now, it’s up to fans, promoters, and decision-makers to ensure that boxing does what’s right. If meritocracy still matters in the sport, Parker’s next fight must be for the heavyweight championship.