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Boxing News: Parker in at Sky, Anthony Joshua out

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Joseph Parker has joined Sky Sports as former opponent Anthony Joshua prepares to leave the platform.

BOXXER, the exclusive provider of boxing content to Sky Sports, today announced the signing of the former world heavyweight champion to an exclusive long-term promotional agreement.

The ex-WBO heavyweight champion entered the professional ranks in 2012, having represented New Zealand at the 2010 Commonwealth Games and narrowly missed a place in the 2012 Olympic squad. 

His impressive mix of technical boxing skills and knockout power quickly carried him up the rankings and into world title contention.

This run culminated in his winning the WBO World Heavyweight Championship in 2016. He held it for two years.

Currently ranked #2 by the WBO and #3 by the WBC, Parker’s presence in the upper echelon of the heavyweight ranks has never been in dispute.

Still, just 30 years old, the New Zealand power-puncher can look forward to a renewed assault at the world heavyweight championships.

JOE PARKER

“This is a massive signing for BOXXER. Joe Parker is one of the best heavyweights in world boxing, and we are delighted to welcome him to the team.

“Every ranking body has him high in their list. Now he’s entering his prime.

“We look forward to taking him back to world title opportunities and some huge events here in the UK,” said Ben Shalom, BOXXER CEO, and founder.

“In signing with Ben Shalom and BOXXER, I’m excited about the next career phase. I will become a two-time world champion on Sky Sports, the best TV platform in sports.

“I’ve had a great relationship with Sky Sports in the past. I’ve had many great fight nights against the leading British heavyweights. I’ll fight absolutely anyone in front of me,” said Parker.

Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development for Sky Sports, “I am absolutely thrilled that Joseph is joining the new era of Sky and BOXXER. This is a significant announcement in the heavyweight division! 

“I have known Joe for years – he has always brought entertainment and will fight anyone. Moreover, he is a charming gentleman.

“He is revered on our shores just like in New Zealand. We will get right behind Joe as he aims to become heavyweight champion again!”

News of Parker’s debut for BOXXER and Sky Sports will be announced shortly.

ANTHONY JOSHUA

Meanwhile, Joshua is ready to sign a long-term deal with DAZN. The change means he will no longer feature on Sky Sports Box Office.

Due to the launch of DAZN PPV, Joshua can now campaign on Pay Per View under his promoter Eddie Hearn.

The deal is reportedly worth nine figures to AJ. However, should he lose to Oleksandr Usyk again, and he’s a big favorite to do so, the deal could be precarious for DAZN.

That fact is not likely to deter DAZN, who have thrown money at everything since its inception.

The views expressed in this article are the opinions of Phil Jay.

WBN Editor Phil has over ten years of boxing news experience. Follow WBN on Twitter @WorldBoxingNews.