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Daniel Dubois lambasts Riyadh scheduling as Joseph Parker cracks Frank Warren joke ahead of fight

WATCH NOW: Paul Coyte discusses the latest sports headlines on February 18

Callum Vurley

By Callum Vurley


Published: 18/02/2025

- 19:54

Daniel Dubois will defend his IBF heavyweight title against Joseph Parker on Saturday night

Daniel Dubois has boldly declared that his IBF heavyweight clash with Joseph Parker should headline Saturday's Last Crescendo event in Riyadh.

"I feel like it should be the main event," Dubois told DAZN. "I am going to steal this show and show why I am the best."


The confident heavyweight champion is determined to make his mark on the card, emphasising his readiness to entertain.

"Now I'm champion, I've just got to push on now. I'm ready to fight and entertain the people," said Dubois.

Daniel Dubois Joseph Parker

Daniel Dubois will defend his IBF heavyweight title against Joseph Parker on Saturday

Reuters

Despite Dubois's claims, the heavyweight bout will serve as co-main event at Riyadh Season's The Last Crescendo.

The undisputed light heavyweight rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol takes top billing on the card.

Both heavyweights are eager to face each other in the ring, with the contest representing a significant opportunity for both men.

Parker has acknowledged the magnitude of the occasion, stating: "I just want to go out there and perform.

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"I just want to go out there, and showcase a great display of boxing."

While Dubois takes an assertive stance, Parker has adopted a more lighthearted approach ahead of Saturday's showdown.

Speaking at Tuesday's Grand Arrivals, Parker joked about his promoter's position, saying: "I think champion of the world, Frank Warren will be there, and we'll all be celebrating!"

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Joseph Parker

Joseph Parker was in high spirits in the last press conference before his title-shot on Saturday night

Reuters

The former champion appeared in high spirits, adding: "As you can see, I'm happy, I'm excited and I'm looking forward to Saturday."

Despite the jovial mood, Parker remains focused on the task at hand, stating: "I respect the position I'm in."

Parker emphasised the importance of focusing on the immediate challenge rather than future opportunities.

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Daniel Dubois

Daniel Dubois is confident he can put on a show in Riyadh

Reuters

"There is still a lot of work to be done. I know there's big fights out there, big names and other belts, but none of that matters unless we get this right," he said.

The New Zealander expressed confidence in his ability to mount a successful comeback in the sport.

"I have confidence that I'm going to prove to everyone that you can come back from a loss. It would be so special to become a two-time world champion," Parker declared.

"I have to be me. I have to focus on me, execute the game plan we've put in place and become champion of the world," he added.