Undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has been called out by an unexpected challenger—Jai Opetaia. The Australian boxing star has thrown down the gauntlet, urging Usyk to fight Joseph Parker instead of considering a rematch with Daniel Dubois. This bold challenge has sent shockwaves through the boxing world, sparking intense debate over who truly deserves the next shot at Usyk after his upcoming bout with Tyson Fury.

With the heavyweight division heating up, Opetaia’s demand raises a key question: Is Usyk avoiding fresh challenges by entertaining a fight with Dubois, or does Parker truly deserve a shot at the Ukrainian champion?

Jai Opetaia’s Challenge: “Why Dubois? Parker is the Real Contender”

Jai Opetaia, the undefeated former IBF cruiserweight champion, has been making waves with his dominant performances and growing reputation as a future heavyweight threat. In a recent interview, Opetaia voiced his frustration over rumors that Usyk could grant Daniel Dubois a rematch, despite their first fight ending in a decisive win for the Ukrainian.

“Why are we even talking about Dubois again? He had his chance, and Usyk beat him clearly. Parker is the one who’s been proving himself, stepping up against top opponents. If Usyk really wants to fight the best, Parker is the guy he should be facing,” Opetaia declared.

His comments come after Joseph Parker’s recent resurgence in the heavyweight division. The former WBO world champion has re-established himself as a top contender with impressive wins over Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang, showcasing improved conditioning, power, and tactical intelligence.

On the other hand, Dubois, despite being a dangerous puncher, has struggled to prove he belongs at the elite level. His controversial loss to Usyk in August 2023 was marred by a disputed low-blow ruling, leading some to call for a rematch. However, many—including Opetaia—believe that fight does not need to happen again

Why Is Parker a Better Fight for Usyk?

Joseph Parker’s rise back into contention has made him one of the most talked-about heavyweights in the world. After suffering setbacks earlier in his career, he has now put together a string of impressive victories, including a dominant win over Deontay Wilder that showcased his ability to neutralize a power puncher.

Opetaia argues that Parker has done enough to earn a shot at the undisputed champion, especially when compared to Dubois, who struggled in his biggest fights.

“Parker is the guy who’s stepping up against killers. Dubois is still young and learning. If Usyk wants to really prove he’s the best, he should take on someone who’s earned it. That’s Parker,” Opetaia said.

Parker’s case for a title shot is further strengthened by his experience. Unlike Dubois, who has yet to defeat a true elite-level opponent, Parker has been in the ring with Anthony Joshua, Andy Ruiz Jr., and Dillian Whyte. His recent improvements under trainer Andy Lee have made him an even more dangerous opponent for any top heavyweight.

Could Opetaia Be Positioning Himself for a Shot at Usyk?

While Opetaia’s statements seem to advocate for Parker, some believe this call-out is also part of his strategy to position himself for a future fight with Usyk.

Opetaia, who has dominated the cruiserweight division, has long expressed his desire to move up to heavyweight. His speed, movement, and technical skill make him a unique threat—one that mirrors Usyk’s own transition from cruiserweight to heavyweight supremacy.

Having already defeated the highly respected Mairis Briedis to claim the IBF cruiserweight title, Opetaia has proven himself against elite opposition. His dominant performances and relentless pressure-fighting style could make him a nightmare matchup for many of today’s heavyweights.

A fight against Usyk would be a massive statement for Opetaia, but he appears willing to wait for his opportunity, focusing first on making sure the right challengers are getting their due.

What’s Next for Usyk?

For now, Oleksandr Usyk is fully focused on his historic showdown with Tyson Fury, set to take place on May 18. The winner of this fight will become the first undisputed heavyweight champion of the four-belt era, solidifying their place in boxing history.

However, what happens after that fight remains unclear.

If Usyk wins, will he entertain a rematch with Dubois, as some reports suggest? Or will he take on a fresh challenge by facing Parker, a fighter who has proven himself against top-tier competition? And could Jai Opetaia, lurking in the background, eventually get his own shot at heavyweight greatness?

One thing is certain—Opetaia’s call-out has added even more intrigue to an already red-hot heavyweight division. Now, the world waits to see how Usyk responds. Will he acknowledge Parker as the rightful contender, or will Dubois get another chance to settle the score? The boxing world eagerly awaits the next move from the Ukrainian champion.