Joseph Parker press conference cancelled as hosting saga continues

Joseph Parker had hoped to host his world title fight in New Zealand. Photo / Photosport

Joseph Parker has had a media conference cancelled as the saga of where his world title fight will be held continues.

Confirmed details surrounding the WBO title fight between Parker and Mexican boxer Andy Ruiz were set to be revealed at a high-profile press conference in Las Vegas on Sunday (NZT).

However, Duco Events co-owner Dean Longeran told Fairfax that the conference won't be taking place, following the decision by Auckland council's events arm Ateed to withdraw their support for the event, leaving it in a state of limbo.

Promoter Bob Arum has also told ESPN that the press conference wouldn't take place until "Parker's team works out the final details of its site deal".

Ateed Chief Executive Brett O'Riley confirmed last night that "Ateed will not be providing financial sponsorship to Duco to stage the Parker/Ruiz fight."

"While there is clear potential to generate international exposure if the fight is held in Auckland, we are unable to make a robust assessment of the potential of this event until the fight is confirmed to take place here and domestic and international television rights are secured."

When asked if he thought it was still feasible the fight could be hosted by Auckland, Longergan said:

"It makes it really difficult. David and myself have some big decisions to make over the weekend.

"Is it a mortal blow? Probably not, but it's a bloody significant one."

Parker and Ruiz were planned to be in Las Vegas to promote their fight during the fight night between Manny Pacquiao and Jessie Vargas for the WBO welterweight title.

However, those plans will seemingly have to wait until the hosting location for the title fight is locked in.