Joseph Parker to be Stripped of Heavyweight Title After Just One Second of Fight with Daniel Dubois Due to Bizarre Rule

Parker's Title Stripped

Joseph Parker will be stripped of his WBO interim heavyweight title after just one second of his fight against Daniel Dubois. Parker claimed the belt in a match against Zhilei Zhang in March.

Bizarre Rule in Action

Parker will now be challenging for Dubois' full IBF world title on February 22 in Saudi Arabia. However, due to fighting for a different governing body's belt, Parker will lose his WBO title as soon as the first bell rings.

WBO President Speaks Out

WBO President Gustavo Olivieri announced on social media that Parker will enter the ring as the champion but will be stripped of the title as soon as the fight begins. Olivieri praised Parker for his dedication to the sport and wished him success in his future endeavors.

Parker's History with the WBO Title

Parker, 32, previously held the WBO title after defeating Andy Ruiz Jr in 2016 but lost it to Anthony Joshua two years later. With Joshua opting out of a rematch with Dubois, Parker steps in to challenge for the title.