Daniel Dubois has fallen sick in Saudi Arabia to put his fight against Joseph Parker at risk. The 27-year-old had been due to defend his IBF heavyweight world title on Saturday night, however he could be forced to pull out of that bout. The Ring, owned by Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh report that Dubois is being “evaluated by a doctor” with just 48 hours to go until the fight, and potential replacement opponents are being considered.
Lawrence Okolie, David Adeleye and Mourad Aliev are said to be the three names on that shortlist. Dubois took part in the public workout on Wednesday as planned, but he will not attend the press conference on Thursday. Promoter Ben Shalom urged Parker to take on Martin Bakole should Dubois be ruled out. Bakole’s trainer Billy Nelson said the heavyweight “had his bags ready” to fly out.
“What an opportunity this could be for Martin Bakole,” Shalom told Sky Sports. "I think it's the best option for Joseph Parker in terms of a 50/50 fight. Martin will do it on two-days notice, he doesn’t duck anyone, he wants everyone. “Now it’s over to Joseph Parker, whether he will take on the challenge that is Martin Bakole.”.
