The heavyweight boxing world is currently in a state of confusion, leaving Joseph Parker unsure of his next move.
Parker was originally scheduled to fight Daniel Dubois for the IBF title in February. However, Dubois withdrew, and Parker instead defended his WBO interim title by defeating Martin Bakole in the second round.
Since then, Parker, a former world champion, has become the mandatory challenger for Oleksandr Usyk, the undisputed champion in two divisions. The WBO has ordered them to fight.
Despite this, it seems more likely that Dubois will face Usyk next, possibly in a big stadium event in the UK this summer.
This situation has forced Parker, with a record of 36 wins and 3 losses (24 knockouts), to consider other options, including a rematch with Anthony Joshua.
Joshua, with a record of 28 wins and 4 losses (25 knockouts), and Parker previously fought in 2018. Joshua won by unanimous decision in a fight that wasn`t very exciting.
However, Parker has shown much more aggression and excitement in his recent fights, including victories over Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang.
Questions have arisen about Joshua`s career after his defeat to Dubois in September.
Despite this, fighting Joshua could be the most financially rewarding option for Parker, although Parker`s main goal is to become a world champion again.
Parker`s team seems interested in the Joshua rematch, with his manager, David Higgins, expressing interest in making the fight happen.
Parker stated in an interview with Newstalk ZB that his preference is to fight Dubois to win his title and then fight Usyk.
He acknowledged that it appears Dubois will likely fight Usyk instead.
Parker admitted that a fight with Joshua is appealing because of the money, as Joshua is a big name who draws large audiences.
Parker reiterated that his priority is a title fight, not just a money fight. However, he understands that financial considerations often drive decisions in boxing.
Ultimately, Parker concluded that if a fight with Joshua is the only available option, he will take it.
