Joseph Parker addresses Moses Itauma rumours following Wardley fight confirmation

New Zealander Parker (36-3, 24 KOs) has bounced back in style since losing to Joe Joyce in 2022. Currently, the WBO mandatory, Parker, is taking a huge risk, facing the big-punching Wardley.

It speaks volumes about his character, as many fighters would sit and wait to see what Usyk does, but Parker is facing a dangerous opponent.

Wardley (19-0-1, 18 KOs) was comprehensively outboxed before landing a huge right hand to KO Justis Huni. That win followed his rematch domination over Frazer Clarke.

When appearing on The Ariel Helwani show, Parker spoke on the Wardley fight: “Fabio Wardley is not on my level. I know he’s had some good wins and he’s got a great story… but there’s levels to this game.”

This confidence stems from a string of impressive performances from Parker, who was asked by Helwani if Itauma was ever an option: “I said to the team, anyone, anywhere, anytime. Moses is a very talented fighter, but again, I will back myself against everyone. I’ll back myself against King Kong. Put me in with anyone, I will smash anyone.”

Joseph Parker’s excellent run of form

Since the loss to Joyce, Parker, under the tutelage of Andy Lee, has been in impressive form, winning six fights in a row. His upset wins over Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang catapulted the 33-year-old into world title contention. 

Parker was due to face Daniel Dubois before his late withdrawal, leading Parker to stop Martin Bakole in the second round of their bout.

If anyone is deserving of facing Usyk, it’s Parker, but first, he has to navigate past the dangerous Wardley.