Joyce’s shot at world glory

JOE JOYCE will have the chance to earn a mandatory challenge for one and perhaps two of boxing’s world heavyweight championship belts.

Great Britain’s Olympic silver medallist from 2016 will take on New Zealand’s former world champion Joseph Parker at Manchester Arena on September 24, in a final eliminator for titles at stake in Anthony Joshua’s rematch with Oleksandr Usyk on August 20. As No 1 and No 2 contenders for the WBO title respectively, Joyce and Parker will be next in line to contest that belt, perhaps early next year after Tyson Fury faces the winner of Joshua-Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight crown.

The WBC title will also come into play for the pair as No 2 and No 3 challengers, should lead contender Deontay Wilder’s comeback be delayed. Joyce, 36, said: ‘Parker realised he had nowhere else to go. You will see in this fight why he was so keen to avoid.’ Parker, 30, hit back: ‘I will bring Juggernaut Joe’s journey to an abrupt end.’