David Higgins launches an attack on British boxing officials in demand of a world-class referee. Photo / Getty Images
David Higgins launches an attack on British boxing officials in demand of a world-class referee. Photo / Getty Images
David Higgins has demanded that a world-class referee handle Joseph Parker's comeback fight against Dillian Whyte, launching another attack on British boxing officials.
Parker will fight Whyte on July 29 at London's O2 Arena in a highly anticipated clash that is likely to contain more consistently hard-hitting action than theKiwi boxer's last bout against Anthony Joshua.
And Duco Events promoter Higgins said that he didn't want to see the bout officiated with the same "disgrace".
"Twice we have come to the UK and twice the officiating has involved a level of disgrace," Higgins told Sky Sports in the UK of Parker's recent British fights against Joshua and Hughie Fury.
David Higgins described the officiating of Joseph's recent fights in the Uk as a "disgrace". Photo / Getty Images
"They are on notice. We would like to see the British Boxing Board of Control and the officials selected be competent, experienced, well-known professionals. Ideally neutral with a good track record. We hope that's not too much to ask."
"There is probably a handful of referees in the world, maybe half a dozen, four or six that are considered the best in the world. Everyone knows who they are, so why for a heavyweight unification [did] they choose an obscure Italian, who has mostly officiated lighter weights?"
"It was appalling. He didn't let the boxers engage and fight properly."
Joseph Parker will face Dillian Whyte on July 29. Photo / Getty Images
General Secretary of the British Boxing Board of Control, Robert Smith, said that the British authority promised a "world class" official for the fight and agreed it was important for both fighters.
"The British Boxing Board of Control will make the appropriate appointments in due course for a very important fight for both boxers, and the officials appointed will be world class," Smith told Sky Sports.
Sky Sports New Zealand has set the pay per view price for Parker's fight at $49.99.
The fight will be shown on Sky Arena and also Fan Pass, allowing non-subscribers the chance to buy it at the same price. The broadcast starts at 5am with the main event expected about 9am.
