Boxing: Joseph Parker v Anthony Joshua likely in November

Boxer Joseph Parker. Photo / Dean Purcell.

It is becoming increasingly likely that Joseph Parker will challenge Anthony Joshua for the IBF world heavyweight title in November.

Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn has said in an interview that New Zealander Parker is his preferred opponent for Joshua's second title defence in Manchester on November 26.

Hearn, clearly frustrated following stalled negotiations with Bulgarian Kubrat Pulev, said he appreciated Parker's determination to get in the ring with anyone.

"At the moment I think the favourite to fight Anthony Joshua is Joseph Parker," Hearn said. "There are a few things that have to get done, but it's a great fight and why not do it now?"

Speaking of his recent negotiations with other fighters, Hearn said: "People get bad advice, people make poor decisions. It's not just people saying 'oh well, you didn't offer enough money. We know the market, we know what people are getting paid.

"Parker seems to be the one who says, 'I'll do it, I'm ready to go now'.

"He's got big balls, Joseph Parker, and he's very dangerous. He's very fast, he can punch, he's undefeated. It's a tough fight. But AJ, he's ready to go now."

To challenge for Joshua's title, first Parker must beat Alexander Dimitrenko in Manukau a week on Saturday.

Parker's promoter Dean Lonergan told the Herald today: "There's been no deal signed or done in terms of whether we fight Price on November 26 or Anthony Joshua, assuming we get past Dimitrenko. As it has been for the last month and a half, discussions are ongoing and a certain path is preferred, but if they can't tie an opponent down we'll make Joseph ready to go."