There are ongoing discussions for a heavyweight clash between New Zealand's Junior Fa and rising Australian contender Justis Huni.

Fa, 19-1, is coming off the first defeat of his pro career - a decision loss to former heavyweight champion Joseph Parker in February. 

Huni, in only the fifth fight of his career, picked up a ten round stoppage victory over Paul Gallen in June. 

The unbeaten prospect was then forced of the Olympic games in Tokyo, as he needed surgery on his hand after the Gallen fight.

Huni's promoter, Dean Lonergan, views the bout with Fa as the springboard clash to gaining credibility for his boxer.

Both sides are trying to work out a deal for February or March of 2022.

Fa is co-promoted by Lou DiBella of the United States and Brendan Bourke of Australia.

As far as getting the deal done, Bourke indicates the ball is in Lonergan's court.

"Lonergan’s been talking a lot of hot air, but we still don’t have a contract and things have stalled," Bourke said to Sporting News. 

“There are about five or six sticking points that neither team are willing to move on – location is one of them – and percentage splits, things like that. The big concern is about the fight itself. There are levels to this game. We know Justis is a fine young fighter, lots of potential, but Junior Fa is seasoned. He’s had 20 pro bouts and the only loss he’s had is at world championship level against Joseph Parker.

“Lonergan has a great young fighter, but I don’t know why they’re rushing him so fast. Junior will give him more than he can handle. I can’t see Huni winning the fight and I think they’re realizing that and they’re getting cold feet. As it gets a bit closer, I honestly think they’ve got cold feet. Negotiations have slowed, they were supposed to put forth a head of agreement, which never came.”