Joseph Parker, the former WBO heavyweight champion, has found himself at the center of controversy once again. After an impressive win over Zhilei Zhang earlier this year, many fans expected Parker to ride the momentum into a high-profile title fight. Instead, the New Zealand fighter seems stuck in limbo, waiting for an opportunity that may never come — and experts are starting to sound the alarm.

In recent days, boxing analysts and former champions have publicly advised Parker to find another fight instead of waiting for a potential shot at Oleksandr Usyk or another major titleholder. The main concern? Ring rust. The longer Parker stays inactive, the greater the risk that his sharpness, conditioning, and timing will erode — and that could be disastrous for his career.

Fear of Ring Rust

Ring rust is a very real threat in boxing. Even the most talented fighters can lose their edge if they spend too much time out of action. Timing, reflexes, and in-ring instincts are all perishable skills that require constant sharpening.

“Joseph Parker needs to stay busy,” said former heavyweight champion David Haye in a recent interview. “Sitting around and waiting for the perfect opportunity is a mistake. He fought brilliantly against Zhang — he needs to keep that momentum going. Otherwise, when the big fight comes, he might not be ready.”

Parker’s team reportedly remains hopeful for a clash against Oleksandr Usyk, the current unified heavyweight champion. However, with Usyk focusing on a potential undisputed title fight against Tyson Fury, Parker’s chances seem slim in the short term.

The Usyk Factor

Facing Usyk would undoubtedly be a career-defining moment for Parker. But it’s not just about getting the fight — it’s about being prepared for it. Usyk is a master technician, a fighter who exposes any hint of hesitation or rust in his opponents.

Some analysts argue that Parker’s cautious waiting game could backfire horribly. “If Parker steps into the ring against Usyk after a long layoff, it could be a massacre,” warned boxing commentator Carl Froch. “You don’t go into a fight with someone like Usyk unless you’re razor sharp.”

Additionally, there’s no guarantee that Parker would even land the Usyk fight. With names like Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Deontay Wilder all vying for high-profile matchups, Parker could easily be left on the sidelines while others move ahead.

A Gutless Strategy?

Some critics have gone even further, accusing Parker of adopting a “gutless” strategy — waiting passively rather than actively seeking fights that would keep him relevant.

“There’s no honor in sitting around hoping for a phone call,” said veteran trainer Teddy Atlas. “You make your opportunities. You fight, you win, you stay in the conversation. That’s how boxing works. Joseph Parker is too good to be waiting like this.”

The boxing world respects Parker’s skills, but respect alone doesn’t fill fight cards. If Parker wants to stay in the minds of fans and promoters alike, he needs to stay active — even if that means taking a less glamorous fight in the meantime.

What’s Next for Parker?

If Parker heeds the advice swirling around him, he could look for a stay-busy fight against a credible opponent. Names like Filip Hrgovic, Frank Sanchez, or even a rematch with Andy Ruiz Jr. have been floated as possibilities.

A win against any of those fighters would not only keep Parker sharp but also strengthen his bargaining position for bigger opportunities later this year or in 2026.

For now, the ball is in Parker’s court. Will he gamble everything on waiting for Usyk? Or will he take charge of his destiny and prove that he’s still one of the most dangerous heavyweights in the world?

Time, as always in boxing, is ticking fast.