Joseph Parker’s Booming Takeover: After Shocking Wins Over Wilder & Zhang, Who’s Next in 2025
Joseph Parker has silenced the doubters and reclaimed his place among boxing’s elite. With back-to-back victories over Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang, Parker has proved that he is not just a former champion trying to stay relevant—he is a real threat in the heavyweight division.
Many had written Parker off after his losses to Anthony Joshua and Joe Joyce, but his recent performances have shown a new level of skill, confidence, and resilience. As 2025 approaches, the question is no longer whether Parker can compete at the top but who he will fight next.
His recent shock victories have put the entire division on notice, and now the world is watching to see who will step up to face him next.
Defeating Deontay Wilder: A Career-Defining Moment
Joseph Parker’s fight against Deontay Wilder was expected to be a dangerous challenge. Wilder, known for his explosive knockout power and aggressive style, was the favorite going into the bout. Many believed that Parker would not be able to withstand Wilder’s famous right hand.
But Parker did more than just survive—he dominated the fight.
- Smart defensive tactics neutralized Wilder’s power
- Parker’s counterpunching exposed Wilder’s weaknesses
- He outboxed and outworked the former WBC champion
The unanimous decision victory was a statement to the heavyweight division. Parker not only avoided getting knocked out but also proved he could stand toe-to-toe with one of the hardest punchers in boxing history.
Taking Down Zhilei Zhang: Power Meets Precision
If Parker’s win over Wilder was about skill and strategy, his fight against Zhilei Zhang was about grit and resilience. Zhang, the Chinese heavyweight powerhouse, had built a reputation as one of the most dangerous fighters in the division after knocking out Joe Joyce twice.
Many believed Parker would struggle with Zhang’s size and power. But once again, Parker shocked the world.
- He absorbed Zhang’s best shots and kept moving forward
- His superior speed and stamina helped him take control in the later rounds
- A devastating counter in the final rounds secured another impressive victory
With two massive wins under his belt, Parker is now in prime position for a megafight in 2025. But who will step up to face him next?
The Biggest Contenders for Joseph Parker in 2025
Now that Parker has re-established himself as a top-tier heavyweight, the possibilities for his next opponent are exciting. Several big names could be in line for a showdown, each offering different challenges and stakes.
1. Oleksandr Usyk: A Clash for Undisputed Glory
Oleksandr Usyk, the unified heavyweight champion, remains one of the toughest challenges in boxing. Known for his elite footwork, high fight IQ, and relentless work rate, Usyk would present Parker with a very different test compared to Wilder and Zhang.
This fight could be for a world title shot, making it one of the most significant fights of Parker’s career. But can Parker keep up with Usyk’s movement and precision?
2. Anthony Joshua: A Rematch for Redemption
Parker has already fought Anthony Joshua once, losing a unanimous decision in 2018. But Parker has evolved since then, while Joshua’s career has been full of ups and downs.
A rematch in 2025 would be a blockbuster fight, especially with Parker now carrying more experience and confidence. Can Parker avenge his loss, or will Joshua prove he is still a dominant force?
3. Tyson Fury: A Massive All-British Showdown
Although Parker is a New Zealander, he has strong connections to the British boxing scene, and a fight against Tyson Fury would be a historic event.
Fury, known for his size, movement, and mental warfare, would be one of Parker’s toughest challenges yet. However, Fury’s recent performances have shown vulnerabilities, and Parker might have the perfect style to exploit them.
4. Filip Hrgovic: A High-Risk High-Reward Fight
Filip Hrgovic is a rising heavyweight contender, undefeated and looking for a big-name opponent. While this fight may not bring Parker the biggest payday, it would solidify his place as the most dangerous heavyweight outside of the champions.
Hrgovic is a technical fighter with knockout power, making him a real threat. But with Parker’s momentum and experience, he could hand Hrgovic his first professional loss.
5. Francis Ngannou: A Crossover Superfight
The former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou has already proved he can compete in boxing, giving Tyson Fury a tougher fight than expected.
A fight between Parker and Ngannou would be a massive global event, attracting both boxing and MMA fans. Parker’s technical boxing skills would be tested against Ngannou’s raw power, making it a fascinating contest.
The Evolution of Parker: What Has Changed?
Parker’s resurgence is no accident. Over the past year, he has made key changes that have taken his game to the next level.
- Improved Conditioning: Parker now fights at a higher pace, allowing him to outlast opponents in later rounds.
- Sharper Counterpunching: He has developed a deadly countergame, making him dangerous against aggressive opponents.
- Increased Confidence: After taking down two of the division’s biggest names, Parker now fights with the belief that he belongs at the top.
These changes have made him one of the most dangerous fighters in the heavyweight division.
What Will 2025 Bring for Parker?
As Parker looks ahead to 2025, one thing is clear—he will no longer be overlooked. He has already beaten Wilder and Zhang, and now he is ready for an even bigger challenge.
The heavyweight division is more competitive than ever, with several major fights lined up for the coming year. Whether it’s Usyk, Joshua, Fury, Hrgovic, or Ngannou, Parker’s next fight could be the biggest of his career.
One thing is certain—Joseph Parker is no longer just a contender. He is a real threat to become the heavyweight champion once again.
