Riyadh Heavyweight Title Fight: Bakole Steps In for Dubois on Short Notice

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — In a stunning turn of events, Martin Bakole has been confirmed as the replacement for Daniel Dubois to fight Joseph Parker in a world heavyweight title showdown on Saturday. Dubois fell ill just days before the event, prompting promoter Ben Shalom to quickly line up Bakole as his opponent.

Shalom, the CEO of Boxxer, shared with ESPN that he had never arranged a fight this swiftly. The rapid succession of events occurred after a pre-fight news conference where Dubois’ promoter, Frank Warren, revealed that Dubois was under medical evaluation.

“I was up on the press conference trying to get it done and then I had a couple of calls with His Excellency [Turki Alalshikh] and it was done,” Shalom detailed. “Unbelievable, I’m trying to take it in.”

Bakole, a Congolese heavyweight with a record of 21 wins (16 by knockout) and just one loss, had to quickly travel over 2,000 miles from the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Riyadh. He is set to fight Parker, who boasts a record of 35 wins (23 KOs) and is considered a formidable opponent.

“He didn’t give 1% hesitation,” Shalom said. “That’s when I knew we had to make the fight. He’s been waiting for moments like this. If he can pull this off against a Joseph Parker who is coming in his best ever shape, he should get a huge amount of credit.”

Parker, who is aiming to become a two-time heavyweight champion, has expressed enthusiasm about taking on any fighter without hesitation, further enhancing the drama surrounding the last-minute matchup. With the bout expected to have significant implications for the heavyweight division, both fighters are determined to seize this opportunity.

In addition to the stakes surrounding the fight, the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) has confirmed Parker’s WBO interim heavyweight title will be on the line, making the winner the mandatory challenger for Oleksandr Usyk‘s world titles.

The heavyweight division is currently in a state of flux, with three of the major titles held by Usyk, who has an unblemished record of 23-0. Dubois currently holds the IBF heavyweight title, which he acquired by defeating Filip Hrgovic in June last year. This situation adds additional excitement to the upcoming fight.

Bakole’s last fight showcased his knockout power, a significant factor in the bout against Parker. However, Parker is the favorite, known for his experience and strategic boxing style, which could serve him well against the knockout artist Bakole.

A similar twist unfolded earlier in the week when Josh Padley unexpectedly stepped in to challenge lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson. After being called on short notice, Padley, who was largely unknown outside British boxing circles, eagerly accepted the opportunity to fight on this significant card.

“I went ‘yes please,’” Padley said, sharing the whirlwind experience of receiving a title shot after just a day of preparation. “I’m still training and I know I can do it.” Padley’s determination showcases the unexpected potential of fighters willing to seize the moment.

As the boxing world turns its attention to Riyadh, the excitement surrounding these last-minute matchups highlights the unpredictable nature of the sport, promising thrilling action as fighters seek to capitalize on their unexpected opportunities.