Fri Feb 21 09:47:57 UTC 2025: ## Heavyweight Champion Dubois Withdraws from Saudi Arabia Bout Due to Illness

**Riyadh, Saudi Arabia** – World heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois has been forced to withdraw from his IBF title defense against Joseph Parker due to illness. The 27-year-old champion underwent a medical examination in Saudi Arabia and missed a Thursday press conference, leading to the last-minute cancellation of the fight scheduled for Saturday. Details regarding Dubois’ condition have not been released, but his promoter, Frank Warren, confirmed the illness at the press conference.

Parker, who will now face Congolese fighter Martin Bakole as a replacement, expressed his hopes for Dubois’ speedy recovery. Bakole, a last-minute addition, is en route to Saudi Arabia.

Dubois, who won the interim IBF title in June and was upgraded to full champion after Oleksandr Usyk vacated the belt, had a successful title defense against Anthony Joshua in September. Parker, a former WBO champion, was aiming for a rematch against a top-ranked contender.

The fight’s cancellation overshadows the main event of the boxing card: a light heavyweight rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol. The event will proceed as planned in Riyadh.

Read More