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Dillian Whyte vs. Joseph Parker

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Dillian Whyte vs. Joseph Parker
Date28 July 2018
VenueThe O2 Arena, Greenwich, London, UK
Title(s) on the lineWBC Silver and WBO International heavyweight titles
Tale of the tape
Boxer Dillian Whyte Joseph Parker
Nickname "The Body Snatcher" "JP"
Hometown Brixton, London, UK Auckland, Auckland Region, New Zealand
Purse >£1,000,000[1] >£1,000,000
Pre-fight record 23–1 (17 KOs) 24–1 (18 KOs)
Age 30 years, 3 months 26 years, 6 months
Height 6 ft 4 in (193 cm) 6 ft 4 in (193 cm)
Weight 258.5 lb (117 kg) 242 lb (110 kg)
Style Orthodox Orthodox
Recognition WBC
No. 1 Ranked Heavyweight
WBO
No. 2 Ranked Heavyweight
WBA
No. 7 Ranked Heavyweight
TBRB
No. 5 Ranked Heavyweight
The Ring
No. 6 Ranked Heavyweight
WBC Silver heavyweight champion		 WBC/IBF/WBO
No. 6 Ranked Heavyweight
TBRB
No. 3 Ranked Heavyweight
The Ring
No. 4 Ranked Heavyweight
Former WBO heavyweight champion
Result
Whyte defeated Parker via Unanimous Decision

Dillian Whyte vs. Joseph Parker, was a professional boxing match contested on 28 July 2018, for the WBC Silver and WBO International heavyweight titles.[2]

Background

[edit]

Since his WBC title eliminator victory over bitter rival Derek Chisora in December 2016, Dillian Whyte had fought Malcolm Tann (replacing first Mariusz Wach then Michael Grant) Robert Helenius (after talks with Dominic Breazeale broke down) and Lucas Browne. On 24 April 2018, the WBC ordered Whyte to face Luis Ortiz in an eliminator bout for their heavyweight champion, Deontay Wilder.[3] Whyte stated that he felt 'betrayed' by this decision as he thought he was already in line to challenge Wilder next, given his number 1 ranking and WBC Silver belt. The WBC made number 2 ranked Dominic Breazeale[4] the mandatory challenger, although they previously confirmed his win over Eric Molina was not a final eliminator. Whyte stated, if anything, the WBC should order Whyte vs. Breazeale as a final eliminator. Promoter Eddie Hearn was also puzzled by the decision.[5][6][7] At the same time, the IBF also ordered Whyte to fight former world title challenger Kubrat Pulev.

On 24 April, the WBC ordered Whyte vs. Luis Ortiz in an eliminator bout for their heavyweight champion, Deontay Wilder.[8] Whyte felt 'betrayed' by this decision from the WBC as he thought he was already in line to challenge Wilder next. The WBC made Dominic Breazeale the mandatory challenger, although they previously confirmed his win over Eric Molina was not a final eliminator. Whyte stated, if anything, the WBC should order Whyte vs. Breazeale as the final eliminator. Promoter Eddie Hearn was also puzzled by the decision.[9][10][11] At the same time, the IBF also ordered Whyte to fight former world title challenger Kubrat Pulev (25–1, 13 KO). A purse bid was set for 10 May.[12] The purse bids were delayed as a deal between Hearn and Team Sauerland, Pulev's promoter, was close to being agreed. The IBF gave them until 24 May.[13] Despite Whyte stating that Pulev did not want the fight, Pulev stated he was more than happy to fight Whyte, but "a lot of things need to be agreed" before the fight could be confirmed. According to Nisse Sauerland, the date of 28 July was being discussed with the host venue being either London or Bulgaria.[14][15] New York based promotional company, Epic Sports & Entertainment, made a purse bid of $1,500,111, winning the rights of the fight. Eddie Hearn offered $831,111, which was higher than the $801,305 bid from Team Sauerland. IBF rules state, for a final eliminator, the higher ranked boxer, in this case Pulev, would get 75% ($1,125,083.25) and Whyte would earn $375,027.75 for the fight.[16][17] On 6 June, although the Whyte vs. Pulev fight was not off the table, it was heavily rumoured via multiple sources that Whyte would instead fight Luis Ortiz in a WBC final eliminator. Many media outlets announced the fight.[18] Pulev was unhappy with the pull out and labelled Whyte and Hearn as "extreme manipulators and plain schizophrenics" as well as accusing them of avoiding him at all costs.[19]

On the morning of 7 June, it was confirmed that Whyte would instead fight former WBO heavyweight champion Joseph Parker (24–1, 18 KOs) on 28 July at The O2 Arena in London on Sky Box Office. An official press conference followed a few hours later.[20] Many fans took to social media stating their frustration around the fight being on pay-per-view. Whyte, along with Parker's promoter David Higgins, explained their reasons as to why the fight deserved to be on the PPV platform. The fight itself was praised by fans for the match up, with it being billed as an eliminator for the winner to challenge Anthony Joshua for the unified heavyweight titles.[21][22] Three days before the fight, it was confirmed a sell-out.[23] It was revealed that before PPV revenue, both boxers would earn just over £1 million for the fight, with Whyte receiving slightly more, being the home fighter.[24] Despite stating he would weigh less, Whyte came in at 258+1⁄2 pounds, 4 pounds heavier than his previous bout. Parker weighed 242 pounds, 16 pounds lighter than Whyte, however 6 pounds heavier than what he weighed in his loss to Joshua.[25]

Although there was some criticism to the bout being on PPV the fight itself was praised by fans for the match up.[26][27]

The fights

[edit]

Undercard

[edit]

The PPV card began with wins for prospects Anthony Fowler, David Allen, Joshua Buatsi and Conor Benn.

Taylor vs. Connor

[edit]

The first world title bout saw unified WBA and IBF lightweight champion Katie Taylor face challenger Kimberly Connor (IBF:2nd, WBA 4th).[28][29]

The fight

[edit]

Despite a swelling appearing under Taylor's right eye in the 2nd round, she dominated the fight. Hurting Connor after a flurry of blows that forced referee Steve Gray to step in and wave it off.[30]

Aftermath

[edit]

Speaking afterwards Taylor said "I knew I had a bump around my eye. It was good, Kimberly was very tough. I just happened to catch her with a good shot, stay composed and finished it. It has always been the plan [to be undisputed champion]. I have two belts and I have two more to go."

Preceded by Katie Taylor's bouts
28 July 2018 		Succeeded by
Preceded by
vs. Jasmine Clarkson
 Kimberly Connor's bouts
28 July 2018 		Retired

Chisora vs. Takam

[edit]

Just before the main event in the chief support, former British, Commonwealth and European heavyweight champion Derek Chisora (WBC 11th) faced former world title challenger Carlos Takam (IBF:5th, WBC 14th) for the WBA International title.[31][32]

The fight

[edit]

Takam would start the bout aggressively, trapping Chisora against the ropes and unloading with both hands and appearing to briefly stun Chisora. The next few rounds were a slugfest with Takam landing to the head and Chisora to the body.

Early in the 8th round Chisora landed a big right hand that dropped Takam, he beat the count but appeared to be on unsteady legs, Chisora immediately landed another heavy shot that flattened Takam, prompting the referee to wave off the bout.

Aftermath

[edit]

Chisora's set up a potential rematch with Whyte for later in the year.[33][34]

Preceded by Derek Chisora's bouts
28 July 2018 		Succeeded by
Preceded by Carlos Takam's bouts
28 July 2018 		Succeeded by

Main Event

[edit]

Whyte won the bout via UD in a fight which saw both boxers hit the canvas. Whyte knocked Parker down twice in the fight, dropping him in rounds two and nine. It looked as though a short left hook dropped Parker for the first time in his career, however the instant replay showed it was a clash of heads. Referee Ian John Lewis made the count. Most of the middle rounds were mostly back and forth action with both fighters having success. Whyte was coming forward, countering and began using his jab more while Parker was mostly on the back foot, using movement and landing 2-3 punch combinations. After round six, Whyte began to show fatigue. This did not prevent him from carrying on going forward and trying to land big shots as Parker was wary of Whyte's power. Whyte also started using roughhouse tactics after the first few rounds. This included rabbit punches, head-butting, holding and hitting and pushing Parker over the ropes. He was warned once earlier in the fight and then warned again in the final rounds, however no points were deducted. Parker took over in the final rounds but was unable to put Whyte away. Parker had an explosive start to round twelve, knowing he needed a knockout to win, he eventually knocked down a fatigued Whyte with 20 seconds left in the fight with a right hand to the head. Whyte got to his feet and survived the remaining seconds of the fight. The three judges scored the fight unanimously 115–110, 114–111, and 113–112 in favour of Whyte.[35][36] Many of the pundits ringside, which included Steve Bunce, had the fight closer including those on radio, with some even having Parker as the winner. Some portion of the boxing media also scored the fight close, in favour of Parker. The Sky Sports team, which included Matthew Macklin, David Haye, Johnny Nelson and Tony Bellew, were criticized for their views.[37][38]

Aftermath

[edit]

Speaking to Sky Sports after the fight, Whyte gave Parker credit, "He was slick and I knew he was going to fight for the first few rounds, then come back in the final few rounds. I am annoyed I slipped at the final hurdle in the last round. I was rocked and took a few." Whyte stated he would take another fight before the end of 2018 and ready for Anthony Joshua in April 2019, "I would like to fight Joshua again if he wants it. I've still got a lot to learn, so I would like to get one more in before him again." Parker had no complaints and humble in defeat, "I gave it my best; the better man and I will come back stronger."[39] Parker's trainer Kevin Barry was very vocal after the fight regarding Whyte's rough tactics, claiming he should have had points taken off.[40]

In the post-fight press conference, Hearn spoke of Whyte's next potential fights. Derek Chisora was mentioned, however Whyte stated he was not interested as he 'had bigger fish to fry'.[41][42] Hearn revealed he would offer Wilder in the region of £6 million ($8m US) to fight Whyte in New York.[43][44][45] WBA (Regular) champion Manuel Charr and Luis Ortiz were also mentioned.[46]

Ultimately Whyte agreed to face Chisora in December 2018.

Fight card

[edit]

Confirmed bouts:[47][48]

Weight Class vs. Method Round Time Notes
Heavyweight Dillian Whyte (c) def. Joseph Parker UD 12/12 Note 1
Heavyweight Derek Chisora def. Carlos Takam TKO 8/12 1:01 Note 2
Lightweight Katie Taylor (c) def. Kimberly Connor TKO 3/10 1:43 Note 3
Welterweight Conor Benn def. Cedrick Peynaud UD 10/10 Note 4
Light-heavyweight Joshua Buatsi def. Andrejs Pokumeiko KO 1/10 1:56 Note 5
Heavyweight David Allen def. Nick Webb KO 4/10 2:59
Light-middleweight Anthony Fowler def. Craig O'Brien TKO 6/8 0:08
Preliminary bouts
Light-heavyweight Frank Buglioni def. Emmanuel Feuzeu RTD 6/8 3:00
Cruiserweight Charlie Duffield def. Reinis Porozovs RTD 3/4 3:00
Non-TV bouts
Cruiserweight Richard Riakporhe def. Elvis Dube RTD 2/4 3:00

^Note 1 For WBC Silver and vacant WBO International heavyweight titles
^Note 2 For vacant WBA International heavyweight title
^Note 3 For WBA and IBF lightweight titles
^Note 4 For vacant WBA Continental (Europe) welterweight title
^Note 5 For vacant WBA International light-heavyweight title

Broadcasting

[edit]
Country Broadcaster
United Kingdom Sky Sports Box Office
New Zealand Sky Arena
Australia Main Event
Ireland Sky Sports Box Office
Panama Cable Onda Sports

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Dillian Whyte vs Joseph Parker prize money: how much of the fight purse will the winner get?". The Telegraph. 26 July 2018. ISSN 0307-1235. Archived from the original on 12 January 2022. Retrieved 26 July 2018.
  2. ^ "Dillian Whyte vs. Joseph Parker". boxrec.com. BoxRec. Retrieved 13 February 2024.
  3. ^ "WBC orders Ortiz-Whyte eliminator". Bad Left Hook. Retrieved 25 May 2018.
  4. ^ "RATINGS AS OF APRIL – 2018" (PDF). wbcboxing.com. World Boxing Council. Retrieved 14 February 2024.
  5. ^ "Whyte furious at WBC after Wilder snub". ESPN.com. Retrieved 25 May 2018.
  6. ^ "Hearn: How Did WBC Order Whyte-Ortiz, Wilder-Breazeale Next?". BoxingScene.com. Retrieved 25 May 2018.
  7. ^ "Dillian Whyte feels betrayed after WBC denied him a mandatory title fight with Deontay Wilder". Sky Sports. Retrieved 25 May 2018.
  8. ^ "WBC orders Ortiz-Whyte eliminator". Bad Left Hook. Retrieved 25 May 2018.
  9. ^ "Whyte furious at WBC after Wilder snub". ESPN.com. Retrieved 25 May 2018.
  10. ^ "Hearn: How Did WBC Order Whyte-Ortiz, Wilder-Breazeale Next?". BoxingScene.com. Retrieved 25 May 2018.
  11. ^ "Dillian Whyte feels betrayed after WBC denied him a mandatory title fight with Deontay Wilder". Sky Sports. Retrieved 25 May 2018.
  12. ^ "Kubrat Pulev, Dillian Whyte headed to purse bid". Bad Left Hook. Retrieved 25 May 2018.
  13. ^ Whyte, Pulev v. "Kubrat Pulev v Dillian Whyte purse bid delayed, agreement imminent?". World Boxing News. Retrieved 25 May 2018.
  14. ^ "Kubrat Pulev hopes to fight Dillian Whyte next but says 'many things still need to be agreed'". Sky Sports. Retrieved 25 May 2018.
  15. ^ "Promoter: Whyte-Pulev Could Happen 7/28 in London or Bulgaria". BoxingScene.com. Retrieved 25 May 2018.
  16. ^ "Whyte-Pulev: Surprise Bidder Beats Hearn, Sauerland For Rights". BoxingScene.com. Retrieved 25 May 2018.
  17. ^ "Epic Sports wins purse bid for Pulev-Whyte fight". ESPN.com. Retrieved 25 May 2018.
  18. ^ Ortiz, Whyte v. "Dillian Whyte press announcement on Thursday, Luis Ortiz favored over Kubrat Pulev". World Boxing News. Retrieved 7 June 2018.
  19. ^ "Kubrat Pulev Erupts Over Whyte, Hearn Making Parker Deal". BoxingScene.com. Retrieved 4 July 2018.
  20. ^ "Whyte vs Parker: Dillian Whyte faces Joseph Parker live on Sky Sports Box Office". Sky Sports. Retrieved 7 June 2018.
  21. ^ Jay, Phil. "Whyte v Parker: Two title eliminators gone / PPV backlash / Possible undercard calvary". World Boxing News. Retrieved 7 June 2018.
  22. ^ "Dillian Whyte reacts badly to doubts over Parker fight being on PPV during interview". GiveMeSport. 7 June 2018. Retrieved 7 June 2018.
  23. ^ "Boxing News: Whyte-Parker sells out the". fightnews.com. 25 July 2018. Retrieved 25 July 2018.
  24. ^ "Dillian Whyte vs Joseph Parker prize money: how much of the fight purse will the winner get?". The Telegraph. 26 July 2018. ISSN 0307-1235. Archived from the original on 12 January 2022. Retrieved 26 July 2018.
  25. ^ "Dillian Whyte goes nose-to-nose with Joseph Parker at weigh in - Boxing News". Boxing News. 27 July 2018. Retrieved 27 July 2018.
  26. ^ Jay, Phil. "Whyte v Parker: Two title eliminators gone / PPV backlash / Possible undercard calvary". World Boxing News. Retrieved 7 June 2018.
  27. ^ "Dillian Whyte reacts badly to doubts over Parker fight being on PPV during interview". GiveMeSport. 7 June 2018. Retrieved 7 June 2018.
  28. ^ O'Toole, Jack (29 July 2018). "Katie Taylor comforts starstruck challenger Kimberly Connor". SportsJOE.ie. Retrieved 11 September 2020.
  29. ^ "Katie Taylor v Kimberly Connor: All you need to know about the London Showdown". Independent. 27 July 2018. Retrieved 15 September 2020.
  30. ^ "Katie Taylor: Unified world lightweight champion successfully defends belts". bbc.co.uk. BBC. 28 July 2018. Retrieved 15 January 2025.
  31. ^ "Dereck Chisora vs. Carlos Takam". boxrec.com. BoxRec. Retrieved 15 January 2025.
  32. ^ "Dereck Chisora v Carlos Takam: Bout set for Parker-Whyte undercard". bbc.co.uk. BBC. 15 June 2018. Retrieved 15 January 2025.
  33. ^ "Chisora Fights Through Fire, Sensational Knockout of Takam". BoxingScene.com. Retrieved 30 July 2018.
  34. ^ Nick Parkinson (28 July 2018). "Dereck Chisora KOs Carlos Takam in eighth round of Whyte-Parker undercard". espn.co.uk. ESPN. Retrieved 15 January 2025.
  35. ^ "Dillian Whyte Survives Near Disaster, Decisions Joseph Parker". BoxingScene.com. Retrieved 1 August 2018.
  36. ^ "Whyte vs Parker: Dillian Whyte out-points Joseph Parker after three combined knock-downs". Sky Sports. Retrieved 1 August 2018.
  37. ^ "Dillian Whyte beats Joseph Parker in gruelling contest". BBC Sport. 28 July 2018. Retrieved 1 August 2018.
  38. ^ Wilson, Andy (29 July 2018). "Dillian Whyte and Joseph Parker should have been a draw - pundit". Express.co.uk. Retrieved 1 August 2018.
  39. ^ "Whyte survives rocky final round to top Parker". ESPN.com. Retrieved 1 August 2018.
  40. ^ "Joseph Parker's trainer: Dillian Whyte should have had points deducted – video". The Guardian. 29 July 2018. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved 1 August 2018.
  41. ^ "Dillian Whyte not interested in rematch with Dereck Chisora". Bad Left Hook. Retrieved 1 August 2018.
  42. ^ Davies, Gareth A. (29 July 2018). "Eddie Hearn backs Dillian Whyte and Dereck Chisora for title shots". The Telegraph. ISSN 0307-1235. Archived from the original on 12 January 2022. Retrieved 1 August 2018.
  43. ^ "Eddie Hearn to offer Deontay Wilder £6m to face Dillian Whyte in New York". The Independent. Retrieved 1 August 2018.
  44. ^ "Dillian Whyte to return in 2018, Three-Opponent Shortlist revealed". World Boxing News. Retrieved 1 August 2018.
  45. ^ "Hearn to offer $7-8m for Wilder to fight Whyte". ESPN.com. Retrieved 1 August 2018.
  46. ^ "Dillian Whyte Eyes Manuel Charr, Skepitcal About Wilder-Fury". BoxingScene.com. Retrieved 1 August 2018.
  47. ^ "BoxRec – event".
  48. ^ "DILLIAN WHYTE VS JOSEPH PARKER (LIVE UNDERCARD)". youtube.com. Sky Sports. 18 July 2018. Retrieved 15 January 2025.
Preceded by Dillian Whyte's bouts
28 July 2018 		Succeeded by
Preceded by Joseph Parker's bouts
28 July 2018 		Succeeded by
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Dillian_Whyte_vs._Joseph_Parker&oldid=1303698281#Chisora_vs._Takam"