Boxing promoter Bob Arum has confirmed that Joseph Parker will fight Andy Ruiz in Auckland on December 10 with only Parker's paperwork to be submitted.
Speaking with Radio LIVE on Friday, Bob Arum said that the deal for the fight had been sealed after the WBO sanctioned it.
"The WBO has sanctioned the fight," Ruiz said from the US.
"Before they sanctioned the fight, I had a meeting with Dean Lonergan and we had both agreed on terms. So we're all set for December 10 in Auckland, New Zealand."
When asked about the fight contract, Arum said that Parker's opponent Andy Ruiz had already signed the contract and that it was just a formality for Parker to do the same with Dean Lonergan's company (DUCO).
"Andy Ruiz signed the contract with us on Tuesday subject to the WBO sanctioning the fight. So everything is signed and sealed."
"[DUCO] told me it was a done deal and Joseph and Kevin Barry also said it was a done deal."
Not willing to get bogged down in details with the fight already a sure thing, Arum stressed how exciting the fight was for New Zealand.
"It should be very exciting for New Zealanders.
"It's an opportunity to have a New Zealand fighter win a heavyweight championship… There's a lot riding on the fight. The WBO have agreed to all neutral officials and it should be a great evening.
"I think it's extraordinarily exciting what's going to take place in New Zealand on December 10. It's great for the sport of boxing and it certainly shines the light on the heavyweight decision."
When asked about Eddie Hearn's comments about a Parker, Joseph fight, Arum provided insight into the situation.
"What Eddie conveniently didn't say is that Joshua refused to go to NZ to fight.
"Why should Parker go to England to fight when he's been raised and supported by fans in New Zealand?"
He also said that the next opponent for Parker should he win against Andy Ruiz was a date with David Haye who announced his comeback earlier in the week.
"David Haye – who is promoted by Frank Warren – will fight the winner between Parker and Ruiz.
"Let's first get a champion and on December 10. We'll either have Parker or Ruiz as the WBO champion. And we'll take one step at a time."
Newshub.