Daniel Dubois Withdraws from Title IBF Defence Against Joseph Parker Due To Illness, Martin Bankole Drafted In

A highly anticipated world-title defence against Joseph Parker, Daniel Dubois’ has been called off just two days before fight night after the British heavyweight fell ill. 

The 27-year-old was set to make the second defence of his IBF heavyweight title in Saudi Arabia on Saturday but was withdrawn on Thursday evening following a medical evaluation. He had already missed a scheduled press conference earlier in the day. 

Promoter Frank Warren confirmed Dubois’ withdrawal, though details on the nature of his illness remain undisclosed. 

With Dubois unable to compete, New Zealand’s Parker (35-3, 23 KOs) will now face [Martin Bakole] (w), a late replacement from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The 33-year-old Parker, who held the [WBO](w) heavyweight title from 2015 to 2017, initially remained hopeful that Dubois would recover in time for the bout. 

“If he is ill, I hope he gets better soon and I’m looking forward to Saturday and having a great show,” Parker said before the change in opponent was announced. 

Bakole, 30, is a highly regarded heavyweight based in Scotland. He holds a professional record of 19 wins (16 knockouts) and one defeat. While the new fight lacks the prestige of a world title bout, it remains a significant contest, with the winner likely positioning themselves for a future title opportunity. 

Dubois’ illness first sparked speculation at around 17:10 GMT on Thursday. Warren made no mention of the Briton at an undercard press conference just after 18:00, but an hour later, Dubois was absent from the main news conference, further fuelling uncertainty. 

While Parker, visibly disappointed, maintained he would still fight on the card, he had not been informed of Dubois’ withdrawal as he left the stage. “I had heard no update on Dubois’ withdrawal and no other opponents had been mentioned,” he said. 

Minutes later, Bakole was officially confirmed as the replacement on social media. 

Despite the disruption, the event remains packed with high-profile bouts. The night’s main event will see Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol battle for the undisputed light-heavyweight championship. Elsewhere, British middleweight Hamzah Sheeraz will challenge Carlos Adames for the (WBC) middleweight title. 

While late pullouts due to illness are rare, the depth of the event ensures that fans will still witness high-quality action on Saturday night.

Boluwatife Enome

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