Director and founder of Duco Events, David Higgins says their goal at unifying the heavyweight division belts would mean taking on the biggest and toughest men in heavyweight boxing.
Higgins admits all of Joseph Parker’s next fights from here on are going to be more difficult than any of the fights he’s been in.
“We can’t have a time frame for unifying all belts. I mean that is the goal but we intend to do it within Parker’s career,” he said.
“The closest would be in four years, hopefully, without him sustaining any injuries,” he added.
Higgins spoke to Loop Samoa during the historic Champions Walk at Eleele Fou Parade held by the government of Samoa today, to formally introduce the heavyweight WBO belt to the country.
For the next two months, Parker would be looking at tougher opponents and Higgins said it’s always good to give themselves options.
“Right now, (Hughie) Fury is the mandatory challenger for the WBO that Joseph (Parker) holds. But that’s not yet figured out fully, because these things have to flow until you find out who is your next opponent. We wanted David Haye and we had a shot but he has changed directions, so we’re in discussions with Fury’s people to making a fight possible,” he said.
If Parker doesn’t choose to take the mandatory challenge, it would mean a fight with Deontay Wilder, the American slugger who holds the WBC belt since last year.
“Our goal to unite these belts should show that we’re not running away from big challenges,” said Higgins.
The biggest challenge in the world of boxing for any heavyweight now, is Anthony Joshua. The IBF heavyweight title holder boasts an 18 - 0 record, all wins by knockout and only one fight reaching round seven, while most end at the third.
“We will fight (Anthony) Joshua, it will happen, that’s not a question of ‘if’, that’s a question of ‘when’ and when we do take on that fight, I know Joseph will be ready,” said Higgins.
“What we will do now is let things come around, and see what our options are for now and slowly we will work at getting those titles together because you are a great until you hold all those belts,” he said.
Joseph Parker got a chance to meet and take pictures with members of the public at the special parade today, where he thanked the people of Samoa for their support.
“Thank You Samoa, your love, support, and prayers are all appreciated. I have never seen anything like this before and I am proud to be a part of it,” he said.
“I will try my best to keep up the good work and with your support and prayers, we can do it,” he added.
Samoa’s Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi has assured Joseph that wherever his career leads him, Samoa will be right behind him. He has pledged Samoa’s support for the champion’s road to unifying the titles and also encouraging the hope to host his first title defense which could be in April 2017.
