Martin Bakole replaces Daniel Dubois for heavyweight clash in Riyadh

Daniel Dubois has withdrawn from his highly anticipated IBF heavyweight title fight against Joseph Parker due to illness, prompting a last-minute replacement of Martin Bakole for the bout scheduled in Riyadh. Parker expressed understanding of Dubois's decision, recalling his own regrettable experience of fighting while sick, and emphasized the importance of being in peak condition for competition. Bakole, known for his knockout power and having recently upset an unbeaten opponent, presents a significant challenge for Parker, who is now under pressure to deliver a strong performance in this unexpected matchup. The fight will not be for the IBF title, but the WBO Interim championship will be on the line, positioning the winner as a mandatory challenger for the WBO heavyweight title. Despite the sudden changes, the Saudi authorities are promoting the event as 'The Fight Card of the Century,' featuring other notable bouts, including a rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol. The shake-ups in the card highlight the unpredictable nature of boxing and the challenges faced by fighters and promoters alike.