By Liam Napier

As he continues to rise up the rankings, New Zealand heavyweight Joseph Parker has announced his next fight will take place in Palmerston North on June 13.

Parker made the announcement via video from his second home in Las Vegas.

"We're fighting in Palmerston North, Arena Manawatu, on June 13," Parker said on Monday. "I'm so excited to fight there. I always get great support so I'm looking forward to seeing you all there."

While no opponent has yet been revealed, Stuff understands Parker's handlers, Duco Events, have been in discussions with American Eric Molina (23-2), who has a valuable No 12 ranking with the WBC and is promoted by Don King.

Importantly, that's the one organisation not dominated by world champion Wladimir Klitschko, with American Deontay Wilder holding the WBC belt.

Victory over the respected Molina – should Duco lock in the aggressive 23-year-old – would certainly see Parker instantly recognised by the WBC.

Parker continues to move in the right direction in the rankings, lifting to an impressive No 8 with on the WBO list and remaining stable at 10 with the WBA.

The 23-year-old South Aucklander moves up one position in the March updates, his rise coming on the back of his ruthless knockout over underwhelming American Jason Pettaway earlier this month.

The challenge for Parker's handlers is to get him a presence on the rankings of the other two major organisations, the IBF and the WBC.

Parker, the New Zealand National Boxing Federation champion who also holds the Pan Asian and WBO Oriental belts, is preparing for a three-week sparring camp with Klitschko in Florida.