Joseph Parker skips sister's wedding to focus on heavyweight title fight

New Zealand Heavyweight boxer Joseph Parker during a promotional SKY TV photoshoot at the ABA in Auckland. Photo: Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz

World heavyweight title contender Joseph Parker has missed his sister's wedding day as he focuses on training for his big fight next month.

The 24-year-old paid tribute to his sister Elizabeth and her new husband, Fonua Fuavao, who were married in Auckland yesterday. Parker gave a special blessing to the happy couple on his social media sites.

"Congrats to my sister Elizabeth Parker and Fonua Fuavao on sealing the deal... Happy couple, wish I was there.''

The boxer remains in Las Vegas where he is training ahead of his heavyweight title fight against Andy Ruiz, on December 10, in Auckland.

My lovely niece Elizabeth Parker is getting married today. Here she is with her Dad. @joeboxerparker pic.twitter.com/ObbfCJHIex

— Judith Collins (@JudithCollinsMP) November 11, 2016

The boxer shared a photo of his sister walking down the aisle with their father Dempsey, who is a well-known fixture at Parker's boxing matches.

Congrats to my sister Elizabeth Parker and Fonua Fuavao on sealing the deal today 😁 #Happycouple #Wishiwasthere

Posted by Joseph Parker on Thursday, November 10, 2016

"My beautiful sister Elizabeth and my father Dempsey. Wish I was in New Zealand for her and Fonua's wedding today, but have to focus on training for Dec 10.

"Lucky I can watch through Skype. Love my sis.''

Among the wedding guests was Police Minister Judith Collins, who is a relative to the Parkers.

She shared a photo of Dempsey Parker and the bride yesterday, writing: "My lovely niece Elizabeth Parker is getting married today. Here she is with her dad.''