Daniel Dubois was forced to withdraw just two days before his IBF World Heavyweight title defence against Joseph Parker due to illness.
It had been reported on Thursday that the co-main event of ‘The Last Crescendo’ was in jeopardy, shortly before the bout was officially cancelled.
However, Parker will remain on the February 22nd card. Instead of facing Dubois for his IBF World Heavyweight title, he will take on Martin Bakole.
Congolese fighter Bakole will come into the bout with a 21-1 record, on just two days notice. Despite Bakole being eager to fight Anthony Joshua, Parker will be next for the 33-year-old.
However, there will still be a title on the line despite Dubois’ withdrawal.
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Joseph Parker and Martin Bakole to compete for world title
Fans described Parker vs Bakole as a risk for the New Zealander, as the bout was initially announced with no title being on the line. However, it has since been confirmed that there will be a belt up for grabs on Saturday night.
Parker vs Bakole will be for the WBO World Interim Heavyweight title, the World Boxing Organisation has confirmed.
The belt is currently held by Parker, who won it versus Zhilei Zhang in his last fight. It was not considered to be at stake when Parker was facing Dubois, however, now Bakole will have a chance to win the belt.
The current WBO world heavyweight champion is Oleksandr Usyk, who has no current opponent scheduled.
This means that there could be a lot more than just an interim title on the line for Parker and Bakole. Whichever man is victorious on Saturday night may look towards the Ukrainian for their next bout.
Parker is the current WBO interim world champion and a win would be his first defence of the title.
Joseph Parker reacts to Martin Bakole matchup
Parker accepted the bout with Bakole shortly after the withdrawal of Dubois on Thursday evening in Saudi Arabia.
Speaking about the change to Sky Sports, Parker described his mindset as “Business as usual.”
“We’re here for our final session, putting some work in and preparing for Saturday night and Martin Bakole,” Parker said.
In terms of accepting the Bakole fight less than an hour after Dubois’ withdrawal, Parker showed no hesitation. “I’ll fight anyone, and everyone. Doesn’t matter who it is, [I’m] ready… Thanks to Martin for putting up his hand, he’s a tough fighter.”