New Zealand's Joseph Parker is set to challenge London's Daniel Dubois for the IBF heavyweight world championship this Saturday. As part of the Riyadh Season event, the match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Box Office. Parker, a former world champion who has previously faced Anthony Joshua, aims to reclaim his title. His preparation includes bulking up to face Dubois, a powerful puncher known for his formidable strength. Trainer Andy Lee confirms that despite the added weight, Parker’s speed and mobility remain unaffected. The boxer himself expresses confidence in his endurance, power, and technique.

For the upcoming contest, Parker has undergone intensive training, focusing on increasing his weight strategically to better withstand Dubois' strength. This approach aligns with the belief that additional mass can provide more stability and resilience during physical encounters. Lee emphasizes that being heavier does not necessarily mean slower; rather, it offers advantages in clinches and holding ground. The team has meticulously prepared Parker for this significant challenge, ensuring he remains agile while benefiting from increased muscle mass.

Parker's previous career heaviest was recorded at 255¼ pounds during his bout against Joe Joyce, where he suffered a knockout in the eleventh round. However, recent victories over Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang demonstrate his capability to excel against strong punchers. These experiences have bolstered Parker's confidence as he prepares for what could be a defining moment in his career. The fighter embraces the role of the underdog, emphasizing the importance of executing their well-crafted game plan.

The showdown between Parker and Dubois promises to be an intense affair. Both fighters bring unique strengths into the ring, setting the stage for a memorable encounter. With Parker's strategic weight gain and comprehensive training regimen, he positions himself as a formidable contender. The outcome of this battle may also influence future heavyweight unification talks, potentially leading to matches against top-ranked boxers like Oleksandr Usyk. Fans eagerly anticipate witnessing this pivotal clash in the world of professional boxing.