Filip Hrgović v Michael Hunter fight off as American withdraws

Filip Hrgovic (Photo: Instagram)

New Zealander Joseph Parker could stand in between Croatian heavyweight Filip Hrgović and a world title shot against Anthony Joshua or Tyson Fury. 

Hrgović was set to fight American Michael Hunter in an IBF final eliminator for the rights to fight for the title against the winner of the Joshua v Fury match, but the fight is now off after Hunter missed the deadline for a deal. 

Hrgović has been training in camp in Miami for the Hunter fight after singing the deal, but the American had not been forthcoming after initially agreeing to fight the Croatian.

Promotor Eddie Hearn confirmed today that Hunter would not fight Hrgović as he announced that the Joshua vs Fury fight would take place in Saudi Arabia on August 7 or 14. 

Sky Sports reported that Parker would consider taking Hunter’s place in the IBF final eliminator.

Joseph Parker would consider taking an IBF final eliminator against Filip Hrgovic to earn a world title fight against Anthony Joshua or Tyson Fury, says the New Zealander’s manager David Higgins.

“If someone is to make contact and make an offer, it will always be considered.”🤔@joeboxerparker open to an IBF final eliminator against @Filip_Hrgovic to earn world title fight👑

— Sky Sports Boxing (@SkySportsBoxing) May 11, 2021

Hrgović, who is 12-0 in his professional career with 10 KOs, has fought Parker once before. Hrgović beat Parker on decision in the semi-finals of the 2010 AIBA Youth World Boxing Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Parker has two wins in 2021 and currently fights under the Matchroom banner, which makes him the most ideal candidate.