JOSEPH PARKER has pulled out of his October 26 big-money fight with Derek Chisora – blaming a SPIDER BITE.
The former WBO heavyweight champ – whose only two defeats came from Brit bangers Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte in 2018 – was set to meet the Finchley brawler at the O2.
The pair were scheduled to be the chief support for the super-lightweight unification battle and World Boxing Super Series final between Scotland star Josh Taylor and American ace Regis Prograis.
But the 27-year-old Kiwi has been KO’ed by a mystery illness that his manager is blaming on an unnamed spider.
David Higgins said: "The theory is that it was a spider bite.
"Boxing is a bizarre world but I know for a fact that Joseph is not well. He has been ordered to rest for three weeks so he can't make October 26, unfortunately.
"Joe is keen to get back in as soon as possible. Hopefully we will have some good news soon."
The famous story of Spider-Man started with Peter Parker suffering a bite from a radioactive arachnid.
But namesake Joseph is not yet believed to have developed crime-fighting super powers from his creepy crawly nip.
But the irony will not be lost on Team Chisora, who were accused of being in a shambolic state at the end of September when the Brit banger announced a split from trainer Dave Coldwell.
Higgins said at the time: "It's plain sailing for Parker in Vegas, it's utter disarray with Chisora in London, however, he remains dangerous.
"He's been in disarray before and pulled a rabbit out of a hat, so we don't underestimate Derek Chisora, or his camp at all, not one bit.
Fans’ Favourite Chisora, 35, was already unhappy at being bumped down the bill by the celebrated smaller men for his local showdown.
Plan B?
And he now has to decide whether to face a late replacement or build a new fight against a serious contender at a later date.
No-nonsense Chisora was back in the gym Wednesday morning, despite hearing the news, as he waits on Eddie Hearn to find him another target.
Manager David Haye has NOT taken up training duties, since the separation from Coldwell, with Chisora happy working with Hayemaker's team of coaches and take on all comers in sparring.
A statement from Team Parker said they were eager to reschedule the fight against Chisora as soon as he's cleared to return.
But the slugger nicknamed ‘War’ might not want to hang around.
Parker’s people said: "Joseph Parker has been battling a health issue at his Vegas training camp ahead of his 26 October fight.
“Following detailed medical assessment, doctors have confirmed that Joseph Parker is not physically able to train or fight until medical clearance is given.
"The fight against Dereck Chisora continues to be one that Joseph Parker and his team want.
“Once medical clearance in given, Team Parker wants to have the fight promptly rescheduled."
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