New Zealand boxer Joseph Parker is hoping a win over Dereck Chisora to close out the year might give him a chance to regain a world heavyweight title in 2022.
Joseph Parker lands a punch on Dereck Chisora. Photo: Mark Robinson/Photosport
A rematch between former WBO champion and British veteran Chisora has been confirmed for December 18 in Manchester.
Parker won via a split points decision when he and Chisora fought in May, which was also in Manchester.
The South Aucklander prevailed 116-111 and 115-113 on two of the three judges scorecards, but the other judge scored it 115-113 for Chisora.
The British veteran made his displeasure with the decision clear after the fight and immediately demanded a rematch.
Parker's manager David Higgins said a more emphatic victory this time around could have significant implications in a division with numerous contenders.
"You never know. Look at when Andy Ruiz got the call-up to fight Anthony Joshua and then upset him.
"Provided you're ranked in the top three or so and you've got a name, which Joseph does, you could get the call up anytime.
"Should Joseph beat Chisora it's realistic he might get another world title shot within a year."
Victory over Chisora in their first fight took Parker's current winning streak to five.
The former WBO world champion would leave New Zealand in two-to-three weeks time.
He would head for Las Vegas to link up with new trainer, who was part of Tyson Fury's coaching team for his WBC world title rematch with Deontay Wilder.
The pair would then get back to the UK to begin preparations for the Chisora fight.
Higgins said given the uncertainty surrounding the MIQ situation, Parker was heading away not knowing when he would be back.
"All options are on the table. If it means we can't come back, we'd consider bringing family up to the UK and basing ourselves there for a bit...
"That's not to say the MIQ situation might change and coming back to New Zealand will be an option.
"But we're not going to waste our time complaining or banging our heads against a brick wall."
Parker has a record of 29-2, with 21 knockouts, while Chisora fell to 32-11 after defeat in their first bout.