Joseph Parker Shocks by Rejecting the Possibility of Facing Usyk or Dubois: Is This Decision a Step Back in His Career?

Joseph Parker, the former WBO heavyweight champion, has stunned the boxing world by publicly dismissing the possibility of facing either Oleksandr Usyk or Daniel Dubois in the near future. Given his recent rise in momentum following a series of impressive wins, this announcement has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. Is Parker taking a strategic pause, or has he inadvertently slowed the pace of his career at a critical juncture? The decision comes at a time when the heavyweight division is heating up, with multiple high-stakes matchups on the horizon.

Let’s break down the implications of Parker’s decision, explore his possible motivations, and evaluate whether avoiding bouts with Usyk or Dubois could harm his standing in the ever-evolving landscape of heavyweight boxing.

Joseph Parker’s resurgence and momentum in 2024

Before diving into the controversy, it’s important to acknowledge Joseph Parker’s comeback. After suffering a tough loss to Joe Joyce in 2022, Parker rebuilt his profile by stringing together wins over credible opponents, including a career-best performance against Deontay Wilder in late 2023. That victory reminded fans of Parker’s blend of athleticism, durability, and ring IQ, and it reignited speculation that he might once again challenge for a world title.

Many believed that Parker was lining up for another major opportunity, possibly against Oleksandr Usyk, the current unified heavyweight champion, or Daniel Dubois, the newly crowned IBF titleholder. Both fighters represent distinct challenges—Usyk is a technical genius with elite footwork, while Dubois is a younger powerhouse with a fierce knockout ratio.

So why did Parker turn them both down?

Why Parker rejected Usyk and Dubois – A closer look at his reasoning

During a recent interview with Sky Sports, Parker revealed that his team is focused on “smart matchups that build momentum, not just big names for the sake of it.” He stressed that he had no fear of facing either Oleksandr Usyk or Daniel Dubois, but suggested that now might not be “the right time” for those fights.

This explanation has sparked debate. Some insiders interpret it as a strategic play—perhaps Parker is holding out for a higher purse or a title eliminator under more favorable terms. Others suspect that avoiding these high-risk, low-reward fights is a sign that Parker’s team is concerned about preserving his current winning streak.

The risk of facing Oleksandr Usyk

Facing Oleksandr Usyk is no easy task for any heavyweight. The Ukrainian is undefeated, with a record of 21-0, and has defeated the likes of Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury with dazzling displays of skill. Parker might recognize that a loss to Usyk—especially one-sided—could undo much of the goodwill he’s built with his recent performances.

Moreover, Usyk’s style has historically troubled heavyweights who rely on timing and counterpunching, like Parker. It’s not hard to see why Parker’s camp might view this fight as a potential setback rather than a golden ticket to stardom.

Avoiding Daniel Dubois – youth and power

On the other hand, Daniel Dubois presents a completely different kind of threat. While not as technically gifted as Usyk, Dubois is younger, stronger, and has shown an increasing level of composure since his comeback. He also holds a world title and is actively calling out top contenders.

Fighting Dubois would give Parker a shot at another belt and a marquee payday. But it would also pit him against a man who has knocked out 90% of his opponents. Dubois is seen by some as the future of British heavyweight boxing, and Parker may believe a fight with him is better delayed until more leverage—financial or otherwise—is on the table.

Is this a missed opportunity or smart business move?

Critics argue that Parker is squandering an ideal moment to reclaim a world title or at least make a massive payday. However, Parker may be playing the long game. He understands the political intricacies of boxing—titles can become vacant, eliminators can materialize, and timing can be everything.

That said, there’s a real risk to this approach.

Inactivity, or the perception of ducking top-tier opponents, can be damaging. Boxing fans have short memories, and momentum can disappear quickly in the heavyweight division. If Parker fails to land a significant fight soon, his name could get lost in the shuffle as new contenders emerge and champions unify titles.

Heavyweight division is heating up

With fighters like Tyson Fury, Oleksandr Usyk, Anthony Joshua, Daniel Dubois, Zhilei Zhang, and Filip Hrgovic all jostling for position, the heavyweight scene in 2025 is dynamic and fast-paced. Avoiding two major names could leave Parker behind, particularly if others like Jared Anderson or Efe Ajagba make big leaps.

Parker doesn’t need to beat everyone, but he does need to stay active and relevant. A tune-up fight against a lower-ranked opponent might keep him sharp, but it won’t do much to boost his profile or justify a title shot.

What are Parker’s options moving forward?

If Parker is not taking on Usyk or Dubois, who should he face? Several names make sense:

• Andy Ruiz Jr. – A former world champion with a fan-friendly style. A win here would give Parker major credibility.

• Dillian Whyte (if cleared to return) – A rematch of their controversial 2018 clash could attract attention.

• Zhilei Zhang – The powerful Chinese southpaw is looking for a big-name opponent, and a Parker-Zhang clash could be explosive.

• Frank Sanchez – Undefeated Cuban boxer with elite skills. Beating Sanchez could earn Parker respect from purists and rankings alike.

Each of these options carries varying degrees of risk and reward. But crucially, they would keep Parker in the conversation.

The promotional side: is Frank Warren playing chess?

Parker is promoted by Frank Warren, who also works with Daniel Dubois and has a working relationship with Usyk’s management team. It’s possible that Warren is trying to avoid pitting his own fighters against one another until it becomes financially irresistible.

This kind of matchmaking chess game is common in boxing, where promoters carefully orchestrate career paths. But it can also backfire if fans lose interest or fighters miss their peak windows.

What fans and analysts are saying

The boxing community is split on Parker’s decision. Some fans see it as cautious and disappointing—suggesting he lacks the killer instinct of an elite heavyweight. Others applaud him for being pragmatic in a sport where one bad night can derail years of progress.

Prominent analysts like Teddy Atlas have weighed in, saying, “Parker is a good fighter, but this is not the time to hesitate. If you’ve got momentum, you ride it. The belts and opportunities don’t wait.”

Social media sentiment reflects this divide. On X (formerly Twitter), many fans express frustration that a fighter coming off a career-defining win is choosing not to chase the biggest names in the division. Others defend Parker’s right to choose his path and point out that timing and negotiations often dictate matchmaking more than public demand.

Final thoughts: Is Joseph Parker playing it safe or playing it smart?

Joseph Parker’s decision to reject fights with Usyk and Dubois is undoubtedly surprising—but perhaps not entirely irrational. In a sport as unforgiving as boxing, a single misstep can cost a fighter millions and erase years of hard work.

Still, in avoiding these matchups, Parker walks a fine line. If he stays active, wins convincingly, and secures a major fight later this year, he’ll be vindicated. But if the momentum fades and other contenders leap ahead, this moment could be remembered as the one where Parker stepped back just when he should have stepped forward.

The heavyweight division doesn’t stand still. Neither should Joseph Parker.