Joseph Parker says he'll fight in NZ on May 6 despite Hughie Fury's last-minute pullout.
Joseph Parker says Hughie Fury's withdrawal hasn't affected his focus and is confident a suitable replacement will be lined up for his WBO title fight in Auckland.
British heavyweight Fury did an 11th hour u-turn on the May 6 fight, complaining of a back injury that has apparently affected his training and will need "three to four weeks" of treatment.
Having already been in camp for more than 12 weeks because of previous delays caused by the Furys, Parker is eager to brush off the latest disappointment and get into the ring.
His promoters are now trying to tie down a late but credible opponent from the WBO's top 15, having been given permission by the governing body for a voluntary defence of the title.
"You do what you have to do, which is train hard and prepare well," Parker said when asked how he is handling the situation.
Mike Angove says Parker's promoters will likely have to 'dip into their pockets' to get a respectable fighter to replace Hughie Fury.
"You have a great team around you and you want to defend the belt and keep it. So that's what keeps you focused and whatever comes you just have to adapt.
"Does it affect me mentally? Not at all. We prepare for whatever situations come our way."
Parker said they were "locking in things at the moment" and was confident the Auckland fight would go ahead with his belt at stake.