By Edward Chaykovsky
Joseph Parker (21-0, 18KOs) is not overlooking the dangerous nature of Andy Ruiz (29-0, 19KOs).
There are ongoing discussions for Parker to face Ruiz on December 10th in New Zealand for the WBO heavyweight crown - the sanctioning body strips Tyson Fury of the title, according to Parker's promoter Dean Lonergan.
Parker, who trains overseas in Las Vegas, has sparred with Ruiz in the past. Ruiz lives and trains in Las Vegas.
Parker is the IBF mandatory challenger to Anthony Joshua, who returns to the ring on November 26th in Manchester.
But Parker is also holding a number one ranking under the WBO and is pushing in a different direction as Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn is in deep negotiations for a fight with former champion Wladimir Klitschko.
Parker's handlers are speaking with Bob Arum of Top Rank to secure Ruiz. Both sides are reportedly close to a deal.
"We are looking at fighting Andy Ruiz, and we are looking to bring it here to New Zealand," said Parker to Sky Sports. "The reason why, we'd love to give back to all our supporters and make history. I think if the opportunity does arises where we are fighting for the WBO heavyweight championship, I will take it in a heartbeat and I would love to bring it back here to New Zealand. I would love to be here in New Zealand, you know the O2 is the future but if we get the opportunity to bring it back to New Zealand, everyone will love it"
Two years ago, Parker and Ruiz traded punches in a sparring session. He credits Ruiz with being the biggest puncher that he's ever faced in the gym or in the ring.
Parker said: "I remember when I sparred him in 2013, he had a lot of power. I was saying to someone else, he was the only one who punched me, the hardest I've ever been punched before and ripped my mouth. I couldn't eat for about three days so I know he's got a lot of power, and he's got a lot of experience. But I know if I have a great training camp, I know I will beat anyone in the world."