Heavyweight boxing in 2025: Dubois-Parker, Joshua’s next move & Fury’s uncertain future

The heavyweight division is set for another action-packed year, with major fights lined up and Tyson Fury’s retirement claim hanging in the balance. While Fury and Oleksandr Usyk dominated headlines last year, Daniel Dubois emerged as a rising force. Now, the stage is set for another seismic year in the sport.

What’s Next in the Heavyweight Division?

The first major fight of 2025 arrives on Saturday, as IBF champion Daniel Dubois faces Joseph Parker in a clash that could reshape the title picture. The winner will have no shortage of high-profile options, while the loser will need to rebuild in a division stacked with contenders.

Elsewhere, Dillian Whyte is set to battle Joe Joyce on 5 April, an event that will also feature the professional debut of Delicious Orie. Additionally, cruiserweights Lawrence Okolie and Richard Riakporhe will test their mettle in a heated grudge match. Rising heavyweight Moses Itauma, just 20 years old, is expected to be added to the card.

Further down the calendar, Frazer Clarke is scheduled to fight Ebenezer Tetteh on 20 April. However, speculation around Deontay Wilder’s return has cooled, with his team dismissing immediate comeback talks.

Is Tyson Fury Really Retired?

Fury shocked fans last month by announcing his retirement, but few in the boxing world believe it will stick. Fabio Wardley, a rising contender targeting a WBA world title shot, is sceptical.

“Fury will probably wake up tomorrow morning thinking about a comeback and go to bed having changed his mind,” Wardley said. “I’m not entirely convinced he’s done. But if he is, he’s left behind an incredible career.”

For now, the heavyweight division rolls on, with Joshua, Dubois, and Usyk leading the charge into an uncertain but thrilling 2025.