Joseph Parker’s Next Steps

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Aug 15, 2025 1:16 AM ET

Joseph Parker is the WBO Interim Heavyweight Champion, as we look at what is next for him.

The current Undisputed Heavyweight Champion is Oleksandr Usyk, who knocked out Daniel Dubois in his last fight to become undisputed at the weight class for the second time. However, Usyk has requested an extension to negotiate a mandatory title defense due to an injury. If the WBO ends up giving the extension, then the bout with Parker could still happen. However, if the WBO denies the request, Usyk could be forced to vacate his belt.

“(Usyk) has put a letter in yesterday, I found out today, stating that he’s asking for an extension period because he’s injured, before being ordered to do anything. But whatever happens, the fact of life is that Joe Parker will either fight as champion, if Usyk vacates the title, or he will fight Usyk for the title,” Frank Warren said

Options

If Usyk vacates, the WBO’s top contender, Moses Itauma , would be the logical choice. Itauma has rapidly risen through the ranks with an impressive series of knockout victories, taking him to 12-0. He is set to face Dillian Whyte on August 16, as a win would increase the calls for him to face bigger names.

There is also the chance to rematch Daniel Dubois. They were scheduled to fight for the IBF title in February but Dubois pulled out due to illness. Dubois then went on to lose to Usyk, but the WBO title would give Dubois an immediate opportunity to get back into the world title conversation.

Derek Chisora became the IBF mandatory challenger earlier this year, but he has also been ranked in the WBO’s top ten. If Parker is elevated to a champion, a fight with Chisora would be intriguing. They fought twice before in 2021, with Parker winning both bouts. This would be a chance for a trilogy fight, giving Chisora one final shot at a win.

There is also the possibility of a second fight with Anthony Joshua. Joshua has been linked with a bout against Jake Paul or a fight with Tyson Fury. However, the chance to become a three-time heavyweight champion could be a huge incentive. Joshua ended Parker’s first reign as champion nearly a decade ago, winning his WBO Heavyweight Title. Parker could get his revenge. Either way, Parker has plenty to consider moving forward.

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: