Fury withdraws from Parker WBO heavyweight title bout

Hughie Fury’s WBA heavyweight title fight with holder Joseph Parker has been cancelled after the Briton suffered an injury.

Fury, the cousin of former heavyweight champion Tyson, was scheduled to face Parker in his opponent’s native New Zealand on May 6.

But Duco Events, Parker’s promotion company, confirmed Fury had withdrawn from the Auckland showdown.

“Duco Events was today notified by the World Boxing Organisation that mandatory No 1 challenger Hughie Fury has an injury, and will be unable to challenge champion Joseph Parker for the Heavyweight Title on May 6 in Auckland,” read a statement released on Sunday.

“The World Boxing Organisation has, therefore, advised Duco Events to investigate the possibility of Joseph Parker making a voluntary defence of his heavyweight title against an opponent ranked in the top 15 of the world rankings.

“Duco Events is currently investigating all options and will make no further comment today.”

Parker is yet to be beaten in 22 professional fights, with 18 of his victories coming via knockout, but Fury represented a dangerous challenge having himself won all 20 of his bouts