By Duncan Johnstone
New Zealand heavyweight boxer Joseph Parker has broken into the top 10 in the world rankings.
The 22-year-old Aucklander has lifted one spot on the WBA rankings to No 10, with the respected organisation updating their listings today.
Parker's rise comes on the back of his last win, a unanimous points decision over Bahamas veteran Sherman Williams in Auckland last month. Parker successfully defended the WBA's Pan-Asian belt in that fight.
Parker is also ranked No 14 by the WBO as their Oriental champion.
Parker is currently in Las Vegas with trainer Kevin Barry preparing to headline the Fight For Life promotion in Hamilton on December 6.
Barry described Parker's rise as reward for "a busy schedule and hard work".
Promoters Duco Events are still to announce an opponent for Parker in Hamilton as they struggle to attract worthy fighters willing to take on the fast-rising New Zealander.
They are desperate to get an opponent who will help push Parker's cause, particularly with boxing's other main organisations, the WBC and IBO.