Tuesday 10 July 2018 11:04, UK
After Dillian Whyte revealed his surprise decision to fight Joseph Parker, we have analysed the reasons why this high stakes heavyweight bout was agreed.
The Brixton man's pursuit of an elusive world title shot could be ended by an explosive collision with Parker at The O2 on July 28, live on Sky Sports Box Office.
Blood, sweat and jeers had come from Whyte as he called in vain for a fight with WBC champion Deontay Wilder after a string of victories over rival contenders.
Whyte switched his focus to a final eliminator against Kubrat Pulev for Anthony Joshua's IBF belt, but he endured another cruel twist as an American-based company snapped up rights for the bout.
Uncertainty about the date and venue for the Pulev fight prompted Whyte to reconsider his options and Parker, fresh from a points loss to Joshua, suddenly made perfect sense.
Concerns that Whyte had withdrawn from a world title race, within touching distance of the finish line, were eased by promoter Eddie Hearn, who says he could still receive a rematch with Joshua.
I think regardless of whether Dillian becomes a mandatory or not, he's going to get his shot at Anthony Joshua.
Earlier this week, Hearn told Sky Sports: "Although he wants to become the mandatory, he's also the perfect guy to create a big fight for Anthony Joshua in the UK, and the more impressive performances Dillian Whyte puts together, the more he's knocking on that door.
"I think regardless of whether Dillian becomes a mandatory or not, he's going to get his shot at Anthony Joshua. He just wants to be in big fights, he just wants to test himself."
Parker had arguably been pushed into a tighter corner after losing his WBO belt and unbeaten record at the hands of Joshua at the Principality Stadium in March.
After battling the division's biggest star in front of a huge audience, the Kiwi had only been offered fights on a far smaller stage against Alexander Ustinov and Bryant Jennings.
But his outspoken backer, David Higgins, challenged the other British contenders to prove their worth against Parker.
What does it say about Dillian Whyte and his character? From our perspective, we are ready, willing and available.
"He'll be seen as dangerous and a lot of guys are very mouthy and derogatory towards Parker in putting him down like [Tony] Bellew, or like Dillian Whyte," Higgins told Sky Sports in April.
"It would be very interesting to see if they are still calling him out, and if the likes of Dillian Whyte or Bellew have changed their tune.
"What does that say about Bellew's character? What does it say about Dillian Whyte and his character? From our perspective, we are ready, willing and available."
Whyte stuck to his word and will attempt to outdo Joshua by becoming the first to stop his resolute foe, increasing the clamour for a second fight with AJ.
Parker could also receive rich reward, along with redemption, as victory sends a defiant message to Joshua that he is back in title contention.
Both should be commended for bravery as they fight for their futures, but either Whyte or Parker will be celebrating an ideal career move.
