Heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois’ IBF world title defence against Joseph Parker on Saturday is likely not to hold after Dubois reportedly fell sick in Riyadh.
Dubois is currently under medical evaluation and did not attend Thursday’s press conference in Saudi Arabia, raising concerns about his availability for the fight.
“Unfortunately, at this moment in time, Daniel is being evaluated by the doctor,” his promoter Frank Warren said. “When we have more news, we will share it with you and update you.”
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A replacement opponent is reportedly being considered should the 27-year-old Dubois be deemed unfit to fight, but Parker, 33, remains on the card regardless of the final decision.
“If he is ill, I hope he gets better soon,” Parker said. “I am looking forward to Saturday and having a great show. I’ve put in all the hard work with my team in Ireland and here in Riyadh. I am ready to go.”
Parker attended the press conference alongside his manager, Spencer Brown, who confirmed that discussions are ongoing about the fight’s status.
“Joe will be there on Saturday, whatever happens, and he’s ready to win. Joe doesn’t care who he fights,” Brown added.
Dubois won the interim IBF heavyweight title by defeating Filip Hrgovic and was later elevated to world champion after Oleksandr Usyk vacated the belt. He successfully defended his title with a fifth-round stoppage victory over Anthony Joshua at Wembley Stadium in September.
Parker previously held the WBO heavyweight title between 2015 and 2017.
Their bout was set to serve as the co-main event to the undisputed light-heavyweight showdown between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol.
Also on the card, Briton Hamzah Sheeraz will challenge Carlos Adames for the WBC middleweight title.
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