In one of the biggest upsets in heavyweight boxing history, New Zealand’s Joseph Parker defeated former champion Deontay Wilder by unanimous decision in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Parker, who was a huge underdog going into the fight, outboxed and outworked Wilder for 12 rounds, landing more punches and avoiding Wilder’s trademark right hand. The judges scored the fight 116-112, 115-113 and 117-111 in favor of Parker, who improved his record to 31-2 and put himself in contention for a world title shot.
Parker, who had lost to Anthony Joshua and Joe Joyce in his previous attempts at the top level, showed a new level of skill and confidence in his performance. He used his jab, footwork and speed to keep Wilder at bay, and also landed some powerful combinations that rocked Wilder several times. Wilder, who had not fought since losing his WBC belt to Tyson Fury in February 2020, looked rusty and frustrated throughout the fight. He was unable to find his range or timing, and resorted to swinging wildly and holding. He also suffered a cut over his left eye in the fourth round, which bled profusely for the rest of the fight.
The fight was part of the ‘Day of Reckoning’ event, which also featured Joshua against Otto Wallin in the main event. However, Parker’s stunning victory over Wilder has thrown a spanner in the works, as he has now emerged as a legitimate threat to any of the champions. Parker said after the fight that he was ready to take on anyone in the division, and thanked his team and fans for their support.
“I’m over the moon, I’m so happy. I’ve worked so hard for this moment, and I’ve proved a lot of people wrong,” Parker said. “Wilder is a great champion, but I was the better man tonight. I stuck to the game plan, and I executed it perfectly also want to thank my trainer, Andy Lee, who has transformed me as a fighter. I want to thank my family, my friends, and all the fans who believed in me. This is for you.”
Wilder, who suffered his second consecutive defeat and dropped to 42-2-1, was gracious in defeat and congratulated Parker on his victory. He also vowed to come back stronger and reclaim his status as one of the best heavyweights in the world.
“I take nothing away from Parker, he fought a great fight. He was the better man tonight, and I respect him for that,” Wilder said. Am not going to make any excuses, I just didn’t perform well. I’m still one of the best in the world, and I will be back. I’m not done yet, I still have a lot to give to this sport. I want to thank my team, my fans, and everyone who supported me. I love you all.”
