Promoters Duco have confirmed that Joseph Parker will defend his WBO heavyweight title against Hughie Fury in Manchester on September 23.

Parker was originally slated to fight Fury in May before an injury forced the Mancunian to withdraw from the bout late in proceedings.

"I'm very much looking forward to this fight. It’s been a long time coming but the contract is signed thanks to my promoter David Higgins and I am ready to get going," said Parker in a statement.

It will be his first title defence against on foreign soil after beating Razvan Cojanu in Auckland last month in front of what is certain to be a hostile partisan crowd.

"I will use it as energy and motivation to put on a great show and fight hard.

"I know there will be a lot of supporters for him (Fury) but I know I back myself and put on a great show, and hopefully get him out of there."

Meanwhile his adversary Fury is supremely confident in his chances of stealing the South Aucklander's belt.

"I've never had a close fight. I've won every round of every single fight," said the 22-year-old, who holds an undefeated professional record with 20 wins.

"I'm going to let my fists do the talking and I’m going to take his belt home with me."

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