Daniel Dubois sickness puts Joseph Parker clash in jeopardy

DANIEL Dubois’ IBF heavyweight title defence against Joseph Parker is in doubt after the champion fell ill, the Ring Magazine has revealed. A replacement is currently being sought to allow the New Zealander to remain on the bill.

This is the second high-profile concern surrounding what has been billed as the greatest card of all time. Earlier in the week, Shakur Stevenson’s opponent, Floyd Schofield, was pulled out to be replaced by Josh Padley.

Bradley Rea has also suffered an opponent mishap. Now, it seems, Dubois could be the latest casualty as medical professionals assess his situation. WBO president Gustavo Olivieri responded on X to clarify the title situation.

Hello, Sir. The agreement reached with Team Parker was that upon the sound of bell, the title would be declared vacant automatically. However, in light of the new scenario, if Parker finds a suitable replacement opponent, the Committee would certainly consider granting sanction.

— Gustavo Olivieri, Esq. (@OlivieriLaw) February 20, 2025

Much of the UK promotion has centred around the Dubois-Parker fight being the selling point rather than the outstanding main event, a rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol. Therefore, this will be an obvious promotional blow.

The headline attraction is currently still intact, although both Beterbiev and Bivol will need to stay wrapped in cotton wool for the remaining couple of days in order to make it to the ring.