Blimey, this is a very niche match-up ! Definitely goes the distance, too close to call. I can't see a rematch or trilogy being called for by anyone, especially the paying public !
They're somewhat evenly matched in overall skill and ability. Parker is somewhat faster and more athletic, Bugner has better fundamentals and is a little cagier. There'd be many close rounds. The keys to victory for Bugner are to jab to both head and body, keep a tight high guard, be patient and time Parker when he gets close. End the round with some combinations to keep him honest. For Parker, use his slight height advantage to try and counter the jab with right hand leads, use constant lateral movement clockwise and counter clockwise (don't get too predictable: shift gears), discourage body shot attempts with uppercuts or clinching, and conserve his energy for the late rounds. I'd imagine that even the most hardcore fan wouldn't tune in unless there was a belt on the line or they were having trouble sleeping. This could either be an interesting chess match with both guys fighting for control of the ring and pace, or it could be a very annoying game of tag with both guys refusing to open up unless the ref tells them to.
I’m leaning towards Joe Bugner. I don’t see either man taking too many chances in this or the fight being very exciting.
I agree that this is a potential shocker, so how about.... Parker cracks Bugner low, maybe drops the head in as well. Now we know what comes next. When hurt or rattled, Bugner was a magnificent sight. A mean, snarling Bugner virtually brushes the Ref aside, flattens Parker with a Wild West right hand and stands over his prostrate form Ali style. Surely that's better than thinking about what is more likely !
Both men are 6 ft 4in but Bugner, at 82 in had six inches reach on Parker.Bugner also had better stamina ,imo.
Providing he fights at his absolute best,I take Joe by decision. His jab would contribute greatly to victory.
The Joseph Parker we saw against Hughie Fury (the closest thing he's faced to Bugner) would lose a decision to Bugner. But Parker's career isn't over yet. He might have his best year ever in 2022, and he has always seemed to have a little more in the tank, but who knows.
From what I've seen, Parker ain't beating Bugner. There'd come a point in this fight where Parker would have to get going, and he won't.
