Daniel Dubois: Joseph Parker on shortlist for WBO heavyweight champion's next world title defence

Joseph Parker is on a shortlist of potential opponents for WBO world heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois.

Parker was due to challenge Dubois for the IBF world heavyweight title last February, but was forced to withdraw due to illness in the week of the fight.

Dubois could now resume his rivalry with Parker, who announced in August that he will continue his career after a suspension was lifted following a failed drug test in October 2025.

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The New Zealander is being considered as a possible next fight for Dubois, who has other options after stopping Fabio Wardley in the second round of their rematch earlier this month.

Dubois has told Sky Sports that he wants the Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua winner or unification fights against WBC titlist Agit Kabayel or IBF belt-holder Filip Hrgovic.

"Any one of them [next]. Hrgovic, he was there on Saturday, maybe him or Kabayel," he said. "Hrgovic was tough as well, Kabayel, we'll see, we'll see what he's about. He ain't been in with a guy like me but he's a good fighter.

"Just anyone with a damn belt… anyone who wants it."

UK Anti-Doping officially confirmed that Parker was free to return to the ring in the summer as details of the case were shared which revealed how Parker stated that the failed drugs test was caused by exposure to cocaine being used by his nutritionist.

The 34-year-old had a spell as WBO champion from 2016-2018, and had rejuvenated his career with wins over Deontay Wilder, Zhilei Zhang and Martin Bakole before his loss to Wardley.

(c) Sky Sports 2026: Daniel Dubois: Joseph Parker on shortlist for WBO heavyweight champion's next world title defence