Joseph Parker will welcome a new challenge following the withdrawal of Daniel Dubois from their February 22nd clash.
Although fans believe Parker is taking a huge risk, the New Zealander seemingly had no hesitation in accepting a fight with Martin Bakole.
The 21-1 Congolese fighter will fly from his home country to Saudi Arabia just the day before the fight as Bakole aims to build on his incredible win over Jared Anderson.
Although he will not be competing for the IBF World Heavyweight title anymore, Parker will look to defend his WBC Interim World Heavyweight title versus Bakole. However, one legendary trainer has warned Parker ahead of the fight.
Teddy Atlas warns Joseph Parker ahead of Martin Bakole bout
Legendary trainer Teddy Atlas has expressed some concern for Parker ahead of his bout against short-notice opponent Bakole.
Speaking to Seconds Out, Atlas said that it is of concern that there are clear style differences between Dubois and Bakole, meaning much of Parker’s tactical preparation may be less useful, “That can be dangerous.”
Although Atlas did acknowledge that the short-notice nature of the bout may mean that Bakole is not in top condition for the fight, he still feels there are threats from the African fighter.
“Even if he’s not in top condition, I know one thing, he can still punch, and that makes it more interesting,” Atlas said.
The coach said that Bakole will likely come out fast and energetic from the start, with the aim of getting the fight finished as early as possible, which is “dangerous for Parker.”
- READ MORE: Joseph Parker opens up on state of mind ahead of Daniel Dubois clash – “I probably was depressed”
Footage shows joyful reaction from Joseph Parker as Martin Bakole fight confirmed
Although accepting a fight with a top contender in the division could be seen as a risky move from Parker, the New Zealander did not show much concern when he was first told about the bout.
In footage captured by DAZN, the heavyweight was seemingly excited that he would be fighting Bakole following the fall-through of the Dubois fight.
When someone tells Parker that he is fighting Bakole, the fighter’s response was, “Let’s go!”
The footage indicates that three names were put forward to Parker as replacement opponents, all of whom the fighter said yes to.
Parker also said that he would like to revisit the Dubois fight in the future following the Bakole bout.