Joseph Parker Dominates Martin Bakole in Riyadh: What's Next for the Heavyweight Contender?

Joseph Parker showcased his dominance in the heavyweight division with a decisive second-round knockout of Martin Bakole in Riyadh. The fight, which took place on Saturday, saw Parker (36-3, 23 KOs) dismantle his opponent with precision and power, despite Bakole stepping in on just two days' notice and arriving overweight.

A Quick Victory

Parker, originally scheduled to face Daniel Dubois for the IBF world title, shifted gears when Bakole (21-2, 16 KOs) became a late replacement. Despite the circumstances, Parker's performance was nothing short of impressive. The New Zealander demonstrated his ability to adapt and capitalize on his opponent's weaknesses, ending the bout in emphatic fashion.

What’s Next for Parker?

With Dubois likely to face Oleksandr Usyk in an undisputed world title fight, Parker's immediate future remains uncertain. One of the most intriguing possibilities is a rematch with Anthony Joshua. The two previously met in 2018, where Joshua secured a unanimous decision victory. However, Parker has since rebuilt his career and is currently in the best form of his life.

The Joshua Factor

Joshua, along with the boxing world, is eagerly awaiting Tyson Fury's decision on whether he will return to the ring for a potential showdown with Joshua. If Fury opts to stay retired, a Parker-Joshua rematch could be on the cards. Parker has expressed his willingness to fight anyone, stating, "I want to fight for the world title and be world champion again."

Parker's Resurgence

Since his loss to Joe Joyce in 2022, Parker has strung together six consecutive victories, including notable wins over Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang. His speed, movement, and technical prowess have been on full display, making him a formidable opponent for any heavyweight. A fight against Joshua, even without a world title at stake, would be a significant draw for fans and a chance for Parker to solidify his legacy.

Other Contenders

In the broader heavyweight landscape, Agit Kabayel also made waves in Riyadh with a sixth-round stoppage of Zhilei Zhang. While Kabayel may not pose a serious threat to Usyk, his victory adds another layer of intrigue to the division.

As the heavyweight division continues to evolve, Joseph Parker remains a key player. Whether it's a rematch with Anthony Joshua or another high-profile bout, Parker's journey is far from over.