Eddie Hearn will be a keen onlooker when Daniel Dubois defends his championship status against Joseph Parker.
This intriguing fight takes place on February 22 as part of a huge bill in Saudi Arabia that is topped by a rematch between the undisputed light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev and challenger Dmitry Bivol.
Both Dubois and Parker are on hot streaks right now. Dubois began his with a KO of Jarrell Miller in December 2023 and carried it on with a stoppage win over Fillip Hrgpvic, after which he was elevated to IBF champion. He then impressively knocked out Anthony Joshua inside five rounds back in September to regain his belt.
Former WBO world champion Parker lost on points to Joshua back in 2018 but has slowly rebuilt well, and in his last two fights, he has beaten American puncher Deontay Wilder over 12 rounds and repeated the trick against towering Chinese heavyweight Zhilei Zhang.
Speaking to Sportsman Boxing, Matchroom CEO Hearn was asked for his view on the fight.
“I think it’s a very tough for for Daniel Dubois. Joseph is in the form of his career. I’m his unofficial promoter. He’s a good mate of mine. I really like him, he’s worked so hard to get back in this position.
“Don’t forget he’s coming off two huge wins, he’s earned his shot and I think he’s got a good style to beat Daniel Dubois. But Dubois is on a tremendous run, he’s full of confidence, and I see it as a 50-50 fight.”
