It's clear the kid still needs a lot of seasoning, but who'd be the best option from the available heavyweights? Many pick Jennings, which I think is a sensible choice, though Jennings would probably have to nab a win beforehand to make the fight respectable. I've also heard Duhaupas's name being bandied about, which I don't think is a bad option either. Duhaupas is coming off a win against Helenius and has the sort of high pressure, tenacious style that could really test Parker's defence and stamina. Parker's team might not be so keen to throw him in with another guy like that straight off the Takam fight though.
Who else? Szpilka might give him a bit of a puzzle to figure out, though I doubt his chin holds up for the full twelve. Pulev would be another tough option. Washington? Scott? Cunningham? Not sure if any of those guys test Parker in the areas he needs to desperately improve in. Dillian Whyte? Ha, maybe.
My pick would be Jennings, if they can get him. Respectable fighter who'd give Parker a lot of rounds without posing a huge danger. Make it happen!
Barry has already said he wants to put Parker up against taller guys to prepare for Joshua. So I doubt he'll fight someone shorter like Stiverne. Possibly someone taller like Martin or Duhaupas.
Luis Ortiz.
Of course he won't though.
Duco are going to protect that payday at all costs. Expect an Arnold grjajaz level opponents until the time comes to cash out vs Joshua
The Takam fight was a huge risk and it I think paid off. However, I didn't like the sound of some of the post fight stuff I was hearing. Lots of talk of relief, and glad it's over, etc. I just hope his team haven't got cold feet and decide to put him back in with bums again, waiting for a payday. Parker has the raw talent to beat most of the top ten right now, but he needs to hone his skills and learn to put everything together. Even if it's a step down from Takam they need to put him in with opponents who can test his weaknesses and force him to improve. They need to take the closeness of the Takam fight as a positive sign that Parker can fight through adversity, not a narrow escape as they seem to be projecting.