18 Jun 2019

Sport: Parker to fight fellow Samoan boxer Leapai

9:03 am on 18 June 2019

The New Zealand heavyweight boxer Joseph Parker has confirmed his next bout will be against the Samoan-born Alex Leapai.

Joseph Parker versus USA's Alexander Flores.

Joseph Parker versus USA's Alexander Flores. Photo: Photosport

The two will fight in the US on 29 June in the first of Parker's three fight deal with British promoter Eddie Hearn.

Leapai is a replacement opponent after American Eric Molina pulled out amidst a dispute over fight terms.

The Lauli'i born 39 year old boxer, who is fighting out of Australia, has won 32 of his 43 fights, 25 by knockout.

Parker, who is also Samoan, is fighting for the first time with Matchroom Boxing, the same promotion team that recently dethroned champion Anthony Joshua belongs to.

Australian-Samoan boxer Alex Leapai in training

Australian-Samoan boxer Alex Leapai in training Photo: PHOTOSPORT