Daniel Dubois was set to defend his IBF title against Joseph Parker last month but pulled out due to illness – and could now face Anthony Joshua instead.

Anthony Joshua could redeem himself from last year’s defeat to Daniel Dubois. The British boxer was knocked out by ‘DDD’ at Wembley in their IBF heavyweight title fight in September. However, recent events suggest that a rematch may be on the cards.

Dubois had been eyeing a bout with Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight title following his latest victory, but first had to defeat Joseph Parker last month. Unfortunately, Dubois had to withdraw from his first title defence at the Kingdom Arena during fight week. This left Parker to obliterate last-minute replacement Martin Bakole, ending the match in the second round. Although Dubois kept his title due to his withdrawal, he has seemingly lost his chance to fight Usyk – with Parker now set to face the undefeated Ukrainian.

Reports also suggest that Dubois lost a staggering £7million as a result of pulling out of the fight, taking into account both his purse for the match and the money he spent on an extensive training camp.

As Parker is currently the WBO’s interim heavyweight champion, the organisation has demanded that Usyk agree to a mandatory defence of his own title within 30 days before they initiate purse bid proceedings, reports the Mirror US.

David Higgins, the promoter for Parker, has also made it crystal clear that his fighter is itching for a shot at the world title. Speaking to Sky Sports, Higgins said: “We have no idea whether or not it will happen next. But I can tell you this. I’ve spoken to Joseph Parker today and he would love to fight for a world title.

“He will fight anyone, anywhere for a world title. That’s his goal, to fight for a world title. Joseph is patiently waiting, keeping fit, and if an opportunity comes to fight for a title, he would love to grab it. We’d take it in a heartbeat.”

Meanwhile, Usyk, who claimed a split-decision victory over Tyson Fury at Saudi Arabia’s Kingdom Arena last May to become undisputed heavyweight champion, may opt to delay his quest to secure that title a second time. Instead, he might consider giving Parker the chance to challenge for his collection of WBA (Super), WBC, WBO and IBO belts.