Boxing: Parker picks up training injury

Joseph Parker picked up an injury during training today. Photo / Dean Purcell.

New Zealand Heavyweight Champion Joseph Parker has sought the advice of renowned sports doctor John Mayhew after feeling a sharp pain in his left shoulder following a routine pad session today.

Doctor Mayhew, who has seen Parker three times previously, has diagnosed it as "bursitis of the shoulder".

"This is the reoccurrence of a shoulder problem Joseph has had for some time" said Doctor Mayhew.

"In certain positions it impinges or catches and we will be reviewing it closely over the next 48 hours."

Trainer Kevin Barry is cautious optimistic.

"This is something that has been monitored by Doctor Mayhew for six months," said Barry.

"Nothing scan wise we do right now will have any influence on whether Joseph fights next Thursday.

The 22 year old is now on a course of anti-inflammatories and has been ordered to wear a sling over the weekend.

"The next 48 hours are a very important time and I'm hoping it will settle down otherwise we may have to consider an injection," said Barry.

"Joseph now needs to focus all his energy in getting fit."

The injury occurred as Parker, and Barry, were in the final preparations for his fight against Sherman 'the Tank' Williams next Thursday October 16.

The 22 year old says he's upset at the setback.

"I've trained too hard for this fight for a setback now."

Parker is currently ranked 14 in the WBO and 15 in the WBA. He is scheduled to defend his WBO Oriental and WBA PABA Heavyweight Titles at Trusts Arena on October 16.