New Zealand heavyweight boxer Joseph Parker is now one fight away from a shot at a world title.
The New Zealand heavyweight Joseph Parker. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Parker's team confirmed today that the 24-year-old will do battle with the Cameroon born, France based fighter, Carlos Takam, to find the new mandatory challenger for the IBF world heavyweight title.
The fight will put the victor on a path to take on the winner of the upcoming IBF title bout between American Charles Martin and Anthony Joshua.
Martin defends the title against the British star on April 9 in London.
The winner must make a mandatory defence against Parker or Takam by mid January 2017.
Parker and Takam's representatives have begun negotiations as to where and when their elimination bout will be staged.
Takam is a French fighter who was born in Cameroon, and has a professional record of 33 wins, 25 KOs, two losses and a draw.
Takam is Parker's most highly regarded and toughest opponent yet.
The fight will be a big step up for the New Zealander.
No details for the date or venue have been confirmed, though Parker's promoters Duco Events hope it can be in New Zealand with Auckland, Christchurch and Invercargill being eyed for a likely May schedule.
Duco boss Dean Lonergan said: "We've been waiting three months for this outcome."
Parker is unbeaten over 18 professional fights, with 16 knockouts and is ranked No 1 behind British world champion Tyson Fury with the WBO.
The South Aucklander is also ranked No 6 by the IBF and WBC and No 11 by the WBA.
Takam is ranked No 5 by the IBF and WBC and No 6 with the WBO.
The new fight means Parker's promoters have had to postpone his next scheduled bout which was set for next month in Christchurch.
Parker and Takam are unable to take a fight before their bout under IBF rules.
-RNZ