Joseph Parker Targets Oleksandr Usyk Fight on The Ariel Helwani Show
Joseph Parker, on The Ariel Helwani Show, demanded a fight with Oleksandr Usyk for the heavyweight title. He also questioned Daniel Dubois' sudden withdrawal from their scheduled bout, highlighting the lack of transparency.
Joseph Parker's Call for a Title Shot
On the latest episode of The Ariel Helwani Show, posted on February 26, 2025, WBO Interim Heavyweight Champion Joseph Parker made a strong case for a fight against Oleksandr Usyk. Parker expressed his desire to challenge for the undisputed heavyweight title, emphasizing his readiness to face the current champion. He highlighted his recent performances and his status as the interim titleholder, positioning himself as a legitimate contender for Usyk’s belts.
Questioning Daniel Dubois' Withdrawal
During the discussion, around the midway point of the segment, Parker addressed the controversial withdrawal of Daniel Dubois from their scheduled IBF heavyweight title fight in Saudi Arabia. He voiced confusion and frustration over the lack of clarity surrounding Dubois’ exit, noting that there was no official statement or medical proof provided for the illness cited as the reason. Parker described the situation as feeling 'weird' and 'strange,' especially given the timing and the implications for his career trajectory.
Impact of the Cancellation
Delving deeper into the topic at a later timestamp in the video, Parker elaborated on how Dubois’ withdrawal affected his plans. He mentioned arriving prepared for the bout, only to be left without an opponent at the last minute. This setback disrupted his path to potentially facing Usyk sooner, as a victory over Dubois would have solidified his position as the next in line for the undisputed title. Parker’s disappointment was evident as he discussed the missed opportunity to showcase his skills on a major stage.
Future Aspirations and Readiness
Towards the end of his appearance on the show, Parker reiterated his focus on securing a fight with Usyk. He emphasized his dedication to training and maintaining peak condition, ready to step into the ring whenever the opportunity arises. His comments reflected a determination to not let the Dubois situation derail his ambitions, instead using it as motivation to push for the biggest fights in the heavyweight division. Parker also acknowledged the support of his team in navigating these challenges, underscoring his resolve to achieve undisputed status.
