Tuesday 31 October 2017 16:00, UK
Joseph Parker would take a world title unification fight with Anthony Joshua in March, if he receives a "respectable deal", says the WBO champion's promoter.
Joshua defended his WBA 'super' and IBF heavyweight titles with a 10th round stoppage win over Carlos Takam in Cardiff and Matchroom Boxing boss Eddie Hearn has revealed that Parker is on a three-man shortlist of opponents for 2018.
David Higgins of Duco Events, who promote Parker, has not been impressed with Hearn's public opinions about the Kiwi's value, but is willing to consider an improved offer.
Higgins exclusively told Sky Sports: "We would fight Joshua next, but Eddie Hearn is killing it by only offering 20 per cent, which disrespects the fact that Parker has earned one of the genuine, recognised heavyweight titles.
"We think it's about more than money. It's the respect of having earned that title. If he really wants unification, give us a more respectable deal and we'll have a good look at it.
If we get a deal we think is fair and respectful, then we'll unify and it could happen that soon.
"But what Eddie has offered in the media, that won't happen. We believe that low ball offer is being used to avoid unification."
Asked about a possible March date, Higgins added: "Yes. If we get a deal we think is fair and respectful, then we'll unify and it could happen that soon."
I've not made an offer to Joseph Parker, but if I was to offer 20 per cent, they should bite our hand off
Hearn is yet to formally discuss figures with Parker's team, although he believes the percentage mentioned should be welcomed by them.
"I've not made an offer to Joseph Parker, but if I was to offer 20 per cent, they should bite our hand off," Hearn told Sky Sports.
Parker, who defeated Takam on points last May, has described Joshua as 'average' and 'robotic', a critical view that is shared by Higgins.
"We weren't overly impressed with Anthony Joshua, I have to say," said Higgins. "Our team unanimously felt it got stopped early and to our minds, it should probably have gone the distance or would have, which means it was similar to Parker-Takam.
"I think Joshua appeared to be puffing a bit as the fight went on and was sort of a bit predictable. I would not call it a dominant performance.
"We think the jury's out on Joshua-Parker. It's got to be much closer to a 50-50 fight, if not in Joseph's favour."
