WBO title defence

Trainer Fury had his initial application rejected on grounds of character, linked to two previous spells in prison, but Associate Minister of Immigration David Bennett granted a special direction, so he can prepare his son for the bout with WBO world heavyweight champion Parker.

Bennett said: "This is a national sporting event with worldwide interest, and Mr Fury is the trainer of Hughie Fury.

Fury's application for a visa has been rejected by Immigration New Zealand on character grounds.

He was jailed for ten years in 1995 for possession and intent to supply amphetamine.

In 2008, Peter Fury was sentenced to another two years for drug-related money laundering.

In a statement, Immigration New Zealand area manager Darren Calder said the case "was fully considered and all representations submitted on Mr Fury's behalf were taken into account before a decision was made to decline his request".