Joseph Parker experienced a whirlwind of events leading up to his heavyweight bout. Just as he was heading to the press conference on Thursday, he learned that his fight with Daniel Dubois might be at risk due to Dubois falling ill. Within hours, the situation changed dramatically, and Parker found himself facing a new opponent, Martin Bakole, who flew in from Congo at short notice. Despite the sudden changes, Parker remained positive and focused on the match ahead. The WBO Interim championship will now be on the line, making the winner the mandatory challenger for Oleksandr Usyk's WBO heavyweight title.

Parker's Resilience Amid Rapid Changes

The New Zealand boxer faced an unexpected turn of events when Dubois withdrew from their scheduled fight. Parker, who had already arrived at the press conference, was informed mid-event that he would instead face Bakole. Despite the abrupt shift, Parker maintained his composure and expressed understanding towards Dubois' decision to prioritize his health. Having previously fought while unwell, Parker empathized with Dubois' choice and emphasized the importance of being in peak condition for any bout.

Parker reflected on his past experience fighting Joe Joyce while sick, a decision he now regrets. He highlighted the significance of putting forward one's best performance rather than risking injury or subpar results. "There’s no point going out there and giving less than your best," Parker said. "You want people to remember you at your best." His mindset shifted quickly to preparation for the new opponent, Bakole, whom he described as a formidable fighter. Parker praised Bakole's willingness to step in on such short notice, adding that it showcased true sportsmanship.

Adapting to a New Challenger

The switch to Bakole presented a fresh challenge for Parker, but he did not hesitate to accept the opportunity. Bakole, known for avoiding high-profile fights, surprised many by agreeing to the bout. Parker, however, remained unfazed and reiterated his readiness to face any opponent. "We’ll fight anyone," he stated, emphasizing the team's dedication and hard work leading up to the event. Parker's promoter also expressed gratitude towards Bakole for stepping up under challenging circumstances.

Bakole's promoter, Ben Shalom, confirmed that negotiations were underway during the press conference and finalized the deal shortly after. The timeline of events unfolded rapidly, with Dubois initially evaluated by doctors, followed by Bakole being announced as the replacement. Parker's focus remained unwavering, as he prepared mentally and physically for the new match-up. He acknowledged the unpredictability of boxing and life, stating, "Things happen, and you just have to adapt." Parker remains committed to delivering his best performance, regardless of the last-minute changes.