Joseph Parker v Daniel Dubois: Fighters share war of words before heavyweight fight

Daniel Dubois goes head to head with Joseph Parker during their press conference in London. Photo / Getty Images

Kiwi heavyweight boxer Joseph Parker has warned Daniel Dubois he’s looking too far ahead as the pair sparred in a war of words before their February 23 in Saudi Arabia.

Meeting in a press conference today in London, Parker (35-3) said he had grown as a fighter during his 13-year professional career and was only now reaching his best.

“I’m very excited to be fighting for the championship of the world for the second time. Two-time world champion sounds beautiful,” he said.

Parker questioned whether his British rival was focused on the task at hand.

Dubois called out Oleksandr Usyk after the Ukrainian’s win over Tyson Fury late last year, despite the fact he still has to get through Parker before another shot at the world title.

The winner of the Parker-Dubois is set to square off against Usyk later in the year, a fight more likely now after Fury announced his retirement today.

Dubois (22-2) has already fought Usyk, resulting in a ninth-round KO defeat in August 2023.

“It’s all about making noise. This is show business. That’s who I want next. First I’ve got to get through this guy [Parker],” Dubois said today.

“I’m going to do a demolition job on him first, then I want Usyk next. I’m ready for it, I’m on a roll so bring him on,” he said.

Parker, however, claimed the Brit was not focused on the upcoming bout.

“He might be looking too far ahead and planning big fights. I’m a big fight. You’ve got a fight right in front of you right now,“ Parker said today.

“I’ve got my mind firmly set on you,” Dubois chipped in.

“It better be,” Parker warned.

Dubois said he was confident after three straight wins over Jarrell Miller, Filip Hrgovic and former champion Anthony Joshua in a 12-month span.

“I’m just on a roll. I feel like I’ll be too much for him. Too strong, too fast. Everything he does, I do better,” Dubois said.

Parker, who is lining up for his 39th career professional fight, said he was now reaching his best.

“I’ve been boxing for a while and I feel like I’ve only just begun now. I feel like I’ve got everything right now and you’re in for a treat,” he warned.

“I’ll teach you a few things in there, if you’ve only just started,” Dubois replied.