24 May 2016

Next opponent for Parker announced

12:32 pm on 24 May 2016

The New Zealand heavyweight boxer Joseph Parker will fight Australian Solomon Haumono in July in Christchurch as he prepares for an IBF heavyweight title fight against Briton's Anthony Joshua.

After a gruelling12 round eliminator title fight win over Carlos Takam in Auckland at the weekend Parker said he has come through injury free.

The fight against Haumono will take place at the Horncastle Arena on July 21st and carries little reward for Parker other than keeping him in shape, before the hoped for title fight in Britain at the end of the year.

Joseph Parker's win over Carlos Takam means he's the mandatory challenger for the IBF title, but a title fight could still be some way off.

Joseph Parker's win over Carlos Takam means he's the mandatory challenger for the IBF title, but a title fight could still be some way off. Photo: Photosport

Following the win over Takam, Parker conceded he needs to work on his defence and coach Kevin Barry is confident fighting Haumono will help Parker do that as the Australian has greater power than Takam.

"A lapse in concentration could ruin our world title dreams," admits trainer Kevin Barry.

Haumono is a 40-year-old who has fought 28 times for 24 wins, 21 of them by knockout, 2 losses and two draws.

Born in Auckland, Haumono had a lengthy National Rugby League playing for Manly, Wests Tigers and St George.

He began professional boxing in 2000 and is now ranked number 12 on the WBA rankings.

Get the RNZ app

for ad-free news and current affairs

We have regular online commentary of local and international sport.