Tyson Fury's decision to give up his WBO and WBA heavyweight belts has removed a significant hurdle to Joseph Parker's goal of winning a world title in New Zealand in December. Parker called it an "exciting opportunity which can't be ignored". "Three things have had to happen for us to fight Andy Ruiz for the world title - one, Tyson Fury has to be stripped, or he relinquish the belts, so that's one. Lonergan added: "I think Tyson Fury is looking to gain a little bit of favour and save the WBO a bit of drama by relinquishing the belts. "I have my fingers crossed my promoters can stitch up a deal to bring the WBO world title to New Zealand."

Source: New Zealand Herald October 13, 2016 03:56 UTC