There were negotiations for New Zealand showdown between Joseph Parker and Junior Fa, but the two sides were unable to agree on the money.

Parker, a former WBO heavyweight champion, and Fa, an undefeated contender, had met four times in the amateurs with each boxer gaining two wins.

Parker's manager, David Higgins, stated in a recent interview that Fa was a "sensible, realistic option" since both fighters were highly ranked under the WBO - with Parker ranked at two and Fa sitting in the number six position.

According to Parker, Fa and his team were asking for too much money - which led to their negotiations falling apart.

"It was in talks and there were discussions," Parker told Magic Talk.

"I said to my team if it is going to get me closer to a title, I will take it in a heartbeat, but they asked for too much money and they priced themselves out. We had four fights as amateurs, I don't have anything against him, and we're both top 10 fighters. If we did fight, I wouldn't be nervous, but the winner will get closer to a world title and the loser it would be the end of their career.

"We had four fights as amateurs, I don't have anything against him, and we're both top 10 fighters. If we did fight, I wouldn't be nervous, but the winner will get closer to a world title and the loser it would be the end of their career."

Parker has fought once this year, scoring a TKO win over Shawndell Winters in February. The 28-year-old was hopeful of fighting at least two more times in 2020, but those plans are on hold until the coronavirus pandemic has been resolved and restrictions are lifted.

Parker continues to work out every day in his gym in south Auckland.

"You can't change what has happened, 2020 is going to be a slow year for everyone. I'm lucky to have fought at the start of the year, but the goal for our team was to keep fighting, we were planning for three, four fights," Parker said.

"I'm keeping active at home, my weight is good and that's why I'm happy. When this is all over, and I get a call to fight someone I'll be ready."