Boxer Joseph Parker's handlers are adamant the surprise retirement of veteran Wladimir Klitschko will fast‑track the Kiwi's chances of a unification bout with Anthony Joshua.
The 41‑year‑old Klitschko opted out of a lucrative rematch with IBF and WBA champion Joshua and instead decided to call time on his distinguished career.
Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed he would now look to take up the mandatory IBF defence against Bulgarian Kubrat Pulev.
That fight was always hanging heavy over the Joshua camp and getting it out of the way now means he is a step closer to a potential unification bout with WBO champion Parker.
Parker's promoter David Higgins welcomed the development and said his fighter wouldn't duck Joshua as long as Parker stayed on track by retaining his belt in his second defence against Britain's Hughie Fury in Manchester on September 23.
Source: Stuff.co
