Fans Thought Parker Would Get Usyk – But What Comes Instead Is a Nightmare Called the ‘KO Artist’

The heavyweight boxing scene never sleeps, and right now, all eyes are on Joseph Parker. He’s fresh off one of the most dominant streaks of his career, rising back to global prominence with statement wins against Deontay Wilder, Zhilei Zhang, and Martin Bakole. Fans believed the next logical step was the long-awaited mandatory clash with Oleksandr Usyk, but here’s the twist: that fight is not happening this year. What does this mean for Parker, for Usyk, and for the entire heavyweight landscape? More importantly, who is Parker likely to face next? The answer, according to his team and industry insiders, could involve a dangerous British knockout artist—and the potential matchup has fans buzzing.

Why the Usyk Fight Isn’t Happening Yet

Let’s get one thing straight: Joseph Parker has earned his shot. By beating Wilder and Zhang in back-to-back tactical masterclasses, and then dismantling Bakole with a devastating second-round knockout, Parker positioned himself as Usyk’s rightful mandatory. The IBF strap could have been his by now if Daniel Dubois hadn’t withdrawn late due to illness before their scheduled showdown.

Instead, Bakole stepped in, and while Parker secured the win, the official IBF title opportunity slipped away. On paper, Usyk vs Parker makes perfect sense: a battle between the slick Ukrainian technician and the rejuvenated New Zealander who has never looked sharper. Yet, reports suggest that Usyk has not engaged in negotiations, citing a lingering back injury. Boxing insiders know how this goes—injuries can be real, or they can be tactical pauses while other megafights are in play. And when you’re a two-time undisputed ruler like Usyk, you control the chessboard. So the reality is clear: Joseph Parker won’t get Usyk next.

The Shortlist – Who’s on Parker’s Radar Now?

Parker’s manager, Spencer Brown, didn’t shy away from dropping hints. In an interview with Boxing News, Brown revealed that Parker will “have to fight before Christmas,” defending his interim title while waiting for the Usyk situation to play out. Brown also teased a three-man shortlist of British heavyweights Parker could face next:

• Daniel Dubois – a power puncher with youth on his side, though Parker already had him on the schedule once before illness struck.

• Fabio Wardley – the current British and Commonwealth champion, undefeated, and riding high after an explosive knockout over Justis Huni in June.

• Derek Chisora – the battle-hardened veteran who has fought practically everyone in the division and remains a fan favorite for his relentless pressure style.

Brown hinted that “one person particularly sticks out,” though he didn’t reveal who. But soon after, industry site Everything Boxing reported that Fabio Wardley is the frontrunner for Parker’s next bout.

Why Fabio Wardley Could Be the Next Big Threat

If it’s true that Fabio Wardley is next in line, boxing fans are in for fireworks. Wardley’s record is nothing short of scary: 19 wins, 1 draw, with 18 knockouts. That’s a staggering knockout ratio, and it cements his reputation as one of Britain’s most dangerous finishers. Wardley has been steadily climbing the ranks, but a fight with Parker would represent a massive step up in opposition. Can he make that leap? Fans are divided.

Some argue that Wardley’s aggressive, high-output style could cause problems for Parker, especially if the Kiwi underestimates the Brit’s punching power. Others believe Parker’s experience, composure, and proven ability to neutralize elite punchers like Wilder and Zhang make him the clear favorite. Either way, Wardley vs Parker is the type of fight that sells tickets, draws eyeballs, and creates viral moments.

Parker’s Hot Streak – Why He Looks Better Than Ever

What makes this potential clash so intriguing is Parker’s current form. For years, critics labeled him a solid contender but not a top-tier finisher. That narrative has completely flipped in 2024. His decision win over Wilder showcased his ability to dismantle a dangerous one-punch artist. Against Zhang, he proved his chin and stamina against one of the heaviest hitters in the division.

And against Bakole, Parker showed a ruthless killer instinct, ending the fight in the second round with precision shots. At just 32 years old, Parker is entering his prime years with newfound confidence and a sense of destiny. He knows the Usyk fight will come eventually, but in the meantime, facing and beating a knockout artist like Wardley could further cement his status as the second-best heavyweight in the world behind Usyk.

The Risk vs Reward – Why This Move Is So Bold

Here’s where things get fascinating. Parker doesn’t have to take this fight. He could easily sit out, wait for Usyk’s recovery, and cash in on the mandatory opportunity. But by agreeing to fight a dangerous knockout puncher like Wardley, Parker is taking a huge gamble. If he wins, he strengthens his case, proves his readiness, and stays sharp.

If he loses, his shot at Usyk may evaporate, and the heavyweight rankings will shuffle once again. Fans love this kind of move because it shows a fighter who isn’t content with waiting—Parker wants to stay active, fight anyone, and prove himself against the hungriest challengers. That attitude makes him a fan favorite, but it also makes the stakes sky-high.

Could Derek Chisora Still Crash the Party?

While Wardley is rumored to be the frontrunner, don’t count out Derek Chisora. At 40 years old, Chisora is in the twilight of his career, but his name still carries weight. He’s fought everyone from Tyson Fury to Anthony Joshua, and he always delivers an entertaining slugfest. For Parker, a Chisora rematch (after their 2021 meeting) could be a solid payday and a fan-friendly fight. But would it carry the same intrigue as facing an undefeated rising star like Wardley? Probably not. Still, in boxing, matchups change overnight, and Chisora’s ability to insert himself into big fights cannot be underestimated.

The Bigger Picture – What This Means for the Heavyweight Division

The heavyweight division is in flux. Tyson Fury is still circling the idea of one last mega-fight. Anthony Joshua is rebuilding his brand after consecutive setbacks. Deontay Wilder’s future remains uncertain after his defeat to Parker. And Usyk, while still the undisputed king, has injury concerns that could stall the entire division.

In that climate, Parker vs Wardley (or Dubois, or Chisora) becomes more than just an interim fight—it’s a statement fight. Whoever wins positions themselves as the unavoidable next challenger to Usyk. Whoever loses may find themselves sliding down the rankings in a division where opportunities don’t wait around.

What Fans Are Saying – Social Media Buzz

On platforms like Twitter and Reddit, fans are split. Some say Parker deserves better than a “stay-busy” fight and should hold out for Usyk. Others argue that fighting someone like Wardley keeps him sharp and boosts his star power. One recurring theme is curiosity: Can Wardley handle someone of Parker’s caliber, or will Parker expose him? That question alone is enough to fuel headlines, debates, and viral content in the weeks leading up to any official announcement.

Conclusion – The Fight That Could Change Everything

Joseph Parker is at a crossroads. The Usyk fight isn’t happening this year, but instead of waiting in the shadows, Parker looks ready to step into another high-risk, high-reward showdown. Fabio Wardley, with his undefeated record and knockout power, seems to be the frontrunner, though names like Daniel Dubois and Derek Chisora still hover in the conversation.

Whoever gets the nod, the truth is this: Parker’s next fight could define his career trajectory. Win, and he cements himself as the inevitable challenger to Usyk. Lose, and the heavyweight dream might slip away. One thing is certain—fans are in for a spectacle, and the heavyweight division just got a whole lot more exciting.