Parker avoids Joyce by signing with Sky.

Former boxing world champion Joseph Parker has signed a deal with Sky Sports and BOXXER to become one of their star names as the Kiwi fighter vowed to lift another world title under the group's guidance.

The 30-year-old has been training with close friend Tyson Fury, preparing him for his heavyweight clash against Dillian Whyte before beating his British rival at Wembley Stadium in April, and now he is turning his attentions to restoring his own career.

Parker held the WBO belt until 2018, when he lost it to British star Anthony Joshua in a unification bout at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, but he is now eager to return to the summit of the sport after putting pen to paper with Sky and Ben Shalom, who has taken over as the exclusive promoter with the broadcaster.

Parker said: 'In signing with Ben Shalom and BOXXER I'm excited for the next phase of my career, where I will become a two-time world champion on Sky Sports, the best TV platform in sports.

'I've had a great relationship with Sky Sports in the past, with many great fight nights against the leading British heavyweights - I'll fight absolutely anyone put in front of me.'

Shalom, speaking before Richard Riakporhe's cruiserweight clash against Fabio Turchi at Wembley Arena, called it a 'massive signing', calling Parker one of the best heavyweights in the world.

'This is a massive signing for BOXXER. Joe Parker is one of the best heavyweights in world boxing and we are delighted to welcome him to the team.

'Every ranking body has him high in their list and now he's entering his prime, we look forward to taking him back to world title opportunities and some huge events here in the UK.'

Adam Smith, Sky's head of Boxing called it a 'major' deal for the heavyweight division and tipped him to lift a world title again.

'I am absolutely thrilled that Joseph is joining the new era of Sky and BOXXER,' he said. 'This is a major announcement in the heavyweight division!

'I have known Joe for years - he has always brought entertainment and will fight anyone. Moreover he is a charming gentleman and is revered over on our shores just like he is in New Zealand. We will get right behind Joe as he aims to become heavyweight champion all over again!'

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/sport/boxi...id=msedgntphdr