Daniel Dubois nears rematch with Oleksandr Usyk for undisputed heavyweight title

Daniel Dubois, the IBF heavyweight champion, was forced to withdraw from his title defense against Joseph Parker due to illness, which has led to speculation about a potential unification bout against Oleksandr Usyk. Despite losing out on a significant purse, Dubois's promoter, Frank Warren, believes this setback could open more opportunities for him, including a possible fight with Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight championship. Usyk, who currently holds three heavyweight titles, expressed interest in facing Dubois next, highlighting that he is willing to wait for the fight. The cancellation of Dubois vs. Parker also means that Martin Bakole will step in to face Parker instead, complicating Usyk's plans. The WBO has indicated that while the winner of the Bakole-Parker fight will be a mandatory challenger, they may consider allowing Usyk to fight Dubois in a unification match if requested. Overall, Dubois's illness has inadvertently shifted the heavyweight boxing landscape, with Usyk keen on securing a fight for the undisputed title soon.