Congolese heavyweight Martin Bakole will step in to fight Joseph Parker on Saturday night after Daniel Dubois withdrew from their highly anticipated IBF world heavyweight title bout due to illness.
According to Sky Sports, Bakole is flying to Riyadh as a last-minute replacement, stepping in just two days before the fight.
Dubois, who was preparing for his first title defence since defeating Anthony Joshua last September, is reported to have a fever and missed Thursday’s press conference while being evaluated by doctors.
Read Also: Daniel Dubois’ IBF title defence against Parker in jeopardy
Despite the late change, Parker remains focused.
“If he is ill, I hope he gets better soon,” Parker said. “I’m looking forward to Saturday and putting on a great show.”
Read Also: Anthony Joshua targets Dubois vs Parker winner for next fight
Bakole’s Camp Confirms the Fight
Bakole’s promoter, BOXXER, confirmed the bout on social media: “Parker v Bakole is on.”
Promoter Ben Shalom added: “The flights have been checked, everything is ready to go, the team is ready to go.”
However, Dubois’ promoter, Frank Warren, stated that a final confirmation on the fight is expected on Friday.
“Unfortunately, Daniel is being evaluated by a doctor. When we have more news, we will share it with you and provide an update,” Warren said.
Bakole Seizes Major Opportunity
Bakole was originally scheduled to face Efe Ajagba in an IBF eliminator but now steps into a high-profile clash against Parker. The Congolese fighter has built an impressive resume with notable wins over Jared Anderson and Carlos Takam.
Dubois won his interim IBF title by defeating Filip Hrgovic and was later elevated to world champion when Oleksandr Usyk vacated the belt. He successfully defended his title with a fifth-round stoppage of Joshua at Wembley Stadium last September.
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