Deontay Wilder has assessed the power of his former opponent who may be aiming towards a world title showdown.
Joseph Parker continued his good run of recent form in 2025 with a second-round knockout over Martin Bakole.
Originally meant to fight for the IBF World Heavyweight title, the champion Daniel Dubois had to withdraw due to illness. This would mean that in February 2025, Parker would defend his interim WBO World Heavyweight title versus Bakole instead.
The win over Bakole made it six victories in a row for the New Zealander, including three knockouts. However, despite being able to find finishes in recent performances, his former opponent discredited his power.
Deontay Wilder unconvinced by Joseph Parker’s power
Deontay Wilder took on Parker in December 2023, as ‘The Bronze Bomber’ looked to get himself back into title conversations. However, the New Zealander would cause a huge upset, winning in dominant fashion.
Parker would win the bout via unanimous decision, as well as seemingly having Wilder dazed in round eight.
Despite Wilder appearing to be stung by the punch, he told 78SPORTSTV, he was just caught in “a dazing moment.”
In terms of the power he felt from his opponent, Wilder said, “None of his punches fazed me, at all. I smiled going back to the corner.”
With a professional record of 36-3, Parker has scored 24 knockouts in his career, with his recent finish over Bakole being perhaps his most notable.
Oleksandr Usyk ordered to face Joseph Parker next
WBC, WBA, and WBO World Heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk was rumored to be facing Dubois in a heavyweight title unification bout. Since Usyk and Dubois had controversy in their first fight, the demand for a rematch has been high.
However, the WBO seems to have other plans for their champion.
After the New Zealander defended his interim WBO World Heavyweight title versus Bakole in February, the WBO ordered Usyk to begin negotiations with the Parker.
This means that the two champions will have 30 days to reach a fight agreement, or else the WBO will order purse bid proceedings.
It is currently unclear as to whether Dubois or Parker will be the next test for Usyk, who has not competed since his sequel victory over Tyson Fury.