Wednesday 11 May 2016 13:38, UK
Joseph Parker and Carlos Takam will fight this month, live on Sky Sports, for the right to challenge IBF champion Anthony Joshua.
The unbeaten Parker will face Takam in a final eliminator in New Zealand on Saturday, May 21, and the winner will become mandatory challenger for Joshua's IBF heavyweight title.
Parker has made an impressive rise up the rankings, compiling 18 victories with 16 of those inside the distance, but the big-hitting 24-year-old is preparing for the toughest test of his professional career.
"This is a very, very big challenge," said Parker. "This guy's not a joke. He's come prepared, he's been in the ring with some big names so I know it's going to be a big challenge but I know it's a challenge I'm ready for."
The battle-hardened Takam holds wins over former world title challengers Tony Thompson, Michael Grant and Frans Botha in a 36-fight record, which features just two defeats.
The most recent loss came against Alexander Povetkin, who will challenge for Deontay Wilder's WBC belt, and the France-based Cameroon fighter extended the Russian into the 10th round.
"This is very, very important for me to win the fight," said Takam. "I come here to New Zealand to win and I'm ready for him. We're going to make a war."
Joshua has admitted he expects to face Parker in the near future and the pair could meet early next year if the New Zealander defeats Takam in front of his home fans.
