Fight ‘not confirmed’

British boxer Joe Joyce is saying his fight with Joseph Parker has been confirmed, but Parker’s manager denies that’s the case. ‘‘Contrary to widespread reporting there is no deal yet for Joseph Parker to fight Joe Joyce,’’ David Higgins told Stuff yesterday. ‘‘Joseph does want the fight yes, but it won’t happen until a contract is fully negotiated and signed by all parties on terms Parker is happy with. Right nowwe are not there yet and Parker remains a free agent open to any offers.’’ Parker’s fight against the Briton was announced during the BT Sport broadcast of the Tyson Fury v Dillian Whyte WBC world title bout yesterday. A date was not mentioned in the announcement.