Joseph Parker says he needs to win and win well against Alexander Flores.

The first step on the Joseph Parker comeback trail shapes as a tricky assignment as the Kiwi heavyweight returns to the ring in Christchurch at the end of the year.

Parker's opponent for the December 15 event at Horncastle Arena has been confirmed as Mexican-American Alexander Flores, who has suffered just one loss in 19 professional fights.

Parker's career is at a crossroads after successive defeats in Britain this year, where he surrendered his WBO title to Anthony Joshua before conceding another unanimous decision to Dillian Whyte, leaving his record at 24-2.

SUPPLIED Alexander Flores suffered his only professional defeat against former champion Charles Martin in 2014.

While the 26-year-old will be expected to get back on track on home soil, Flores has the credentials to suggest he won't have it all his own way.

READ MORE:

* Parker wants 'devastating knockout' in Christchurch

* Parker eyes US boom

* Parker to return in Chch

Promoted by the legendary Roy Jones Jnr, Flores' record stands at 17-1-1 with 13 wins via knockout.

GETTY IMAGES Joseph Parker takes a shot during his most recent defeat to Dillian Whyte.

The 28-year-old's lone defeat came at the hands of former IBF heavyweight champion Charles Martin in 2014, which he took on two weeks' notice.

With the date and venue confirmed earlier this month, Parker has already begun preparations under trainer Kevin Barry in Las Vegas.

And while he respects the danger posed by Flores, Parker has vowed to prove he remains a force in the division by delivering a statement victory.

"I'm really glad that Alex is coming to New Zealand full of confidence," Parker said. "For me boxing is all about the challenge – and this is another big one.

"I know what is at stake, I need to win and win well. I need to knock him out and I will knock him out. But I can't focus on that. I need to focus on getting better each and every time I get in the ring."

After following up his loss to Martin with a draw against American Avery Gibson, Flores has since rebuilt his confidence with three-straight KO victories in Tijuana, Mexico.

And he is determined to make the most of his shot at a high-profile opponent.

Flores is also familiar with Parker's style having served as a sparring partner for Andy Ruiz Jr ahead of their WBO title showdown in Auckland two years ago.

Parker ultimately etched his name in New Zealand boxing history that night by edging a close decision, which Flores believes should have gone his compatriot's way.

But he has promised to set the record straight in Christchurch.

"There is no way this fight goes 10 rounds," Flores said. "I'm going to knock him out.

"A lot of people might not have heard of Alexander 'The Great' yet – but they'll all know who I am after December 15."

Parker's promoter David Higgins of Duco Events admitted he was extremely nervous about the contest, with his fighter under huge pressure to perform.

"With Joseph coming off two straight defeats – however unlucky – a third defeat would be catastrophic for his career," Higgins said. "Alexander's undoubted punching power makes this an extremely dangerous assignment for Joseph – so it is fair to say I am the most nervous I have ever been before a fight."

Barry echoed those sentiments but at the same time is excited by the matchup and the chance to help Parker return to the winner's circle in the veteran trainer's hometown.

"We've known for some time it was likely to be Flores and it is great to have that confirmed," Barry said. "These guys are the same height and they both pack a serious punch, so it stacks up as a great contest. That's great for boxing fans – and Canterbury boxing fans in particular.

"This is a dangerous fight. A fight where Joseph Parker is fighting for his career."