Dubois pulls out of world title defence as Martin Bakole steps in to face Parker

Daniel Dubois has abruptly pulled out of his IBF world heavyweight title defence against Joseph Parker after falling ill 48 hours before the first bell.

Dubois was scheduled to defend his heavyweight crown for the second time against the former champion in Saudi Arabia on Saturday, with a replacement in-doubt bout now confirmed to be Martin Bakole.

The Briton was due to set foot in the ring for the first time since defeating Anthony Joshua via stoppage in September.

Speculation broke on Thursday that Dubois was unwell and being evaluated by medical professionals with Ring Magazine, which is owned by Turki Alalshikh, first reporting the news.

The magazine later confirmed that Dubois had to withdraw and Martin Bakole had been brought in as a replacement.

Head of Queensberry Promotions, Frank Warren, confirmed that Dubois was undergoing medical examinations at Thursday’s press conference.

“Unfortunately, at this moment in time, Daniel is being evaluated by a doctor and when we have more news, we will share it with you and update you,” said Warren.

Though, following this development, Joseph Parker said he was ready to take on any replacement.

“If he is ill, I hope he gets better soon and I’m looking forward to Saturday and putting on a great show. I’m ready to go,” said Parker.

Before now, Bakole had been training to fight Efe Ajagba in May to determine the next challenger to Dubois’ crown.

Dubois had shown no sign of being unwell as he completed his media duties this week and appeared at both Tuesday’s Grand Arrival and Wednesday night’s public workout where he shadowboxed for a little over 40 seconds.

Dubois was upgraded to world champion last summer when Oleksandr Usyk relinquished his IBF belt. The Londoner went on to knock out Anthony Joshua inside five rounds in September to retain his crown.

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