London, UK - Daniel Dubois is set to defend his IBF heavyweight world title against former WBO champion Joseph Parker on February 22 as part of the prestigious Riyadh Season in Saudi Arabia. This highly anticipated bout promises to be a pivotal clash in the heavyweight division, with the winner positioning themselves for a potential unification fight with reigning World Heavyweight Champion Oleksandr Usyk.

Dubois, hailing from London, has established himself as one of the most dangerous heavyweights in the division. His ascent to the top began with a statement victory over Filip Hrgovic in June, where he claimed the IBF Interim title. His status was elevated to full champion when Oleksandr Usyk vacated the IBF belt to fulfill his rematch obligations with Tyson Fury. Dubois solidified his credentials in September with a sensational knockout victory over former unified champion Anthony Joshua. In front of a packed Wembley Stadium, Dubois dismantled Joshua in just five rounds, cementing his reputation as a powerful and fearless contender.

Now, Dubois will step into the ring for the first defense of his title, taking on a former champion with a formidable track record. Joseph Parker, a seasoned heavyweight from New Zealand, has been on an impressive resurgence. After losing his WBO title in 2018, Parker has rebuilt his career with notable victories, including an upset win over the hard-hitting former WBC champion Deontay Wilder last year. Parker followed that up with a strategic points victory over Zhilei Zhang to claim the WBO Interim heavyweight title, showcasing his tactical acumen and resilience.

Parker’s blend of experience, durability, and recent momentum makes him a formidable challenger for Dubois. The fight in Riyadh represents Parker’s opportunity to reclaim a world title and reaffirm his place among the division’s elite. The matchup between Dubois and Parker is not just a clash of styles but also a battle for future supremacy in the heavyweight division. Dubois’ raw power and aggression will be tested against Parker’s experience and technical skill. With both fighters riding high on recent victories, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Victory in Riyadh will bring the winner closer to a unification bout with Oleksandr Usyk, potentially setting the stage for one of the most significant fights in boxing.

Adding to the excitement of the event, Zhilei Zhang, the heavy-handed Chinese contender, will face unbeaten Agit Kabayel for the WBC Interim heavyweight title. Zhang, known for his knockout power, is coming off a series of dominant performances and aims to further establish himself as a top contender. Kabayel, undefeated and determined, seeks to make a statement against the hard-hitting Zhang. Their bout adds another layer of intrigue to a blockbuster evening.