Joseph Parker’s brother detained at US airport after altercation

The brother of boxer Joseph Parker has been detained at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago after becoming involved in a physical altercation.

It is understood John Parker assaulted at least one member of the public after being removed from a United Airlines flight to Los Angeles due to a ticketing issue. 

The 25-year-old was also involved in a physical incident with a member of Joseph Parker's extended management team at a Chicago hotel the previous night. Stuff has confirmed manager David Higgins was not involved. Parker's entourage have suggested that "mental health issues" were a factor. 

Joseph Parker, members of his family and management team were travelling home to Auckland from Providence, Rhode Island, where the former WBO heavyweight champion fought Australian Alex Leapai on Saturday (Sunday NZ time).

At the time of writing it was hoped the younger Parker, himself a former boxer, would be released without charge so he could return home and receive treatment.

"I am aware of an incident involving Joseph Parker's younger brother John," Higgins said.

"I wasn't present at the time so I don't fully know the details and I'm relying on what I've been told by third parties. But I understand that there has been an assault but do not wish to comment further until the facts are clear.

"It's became apparent that John has been dealing with some mental health issues that seem to have contributed to the incident. Obviously I sympathise with those involved and we're looking to provide all the support we can."

Joseph Parker was asleep and did not notice that his brother was removed from the plane. He said he was personally devastated and asked for his and his family's privacy to be respected at this time.

"I can confirm that my brother John has been detained in the United States following an incident that occurred on his way home to New Zealand. I can't comment on the details of this matter – other than to say that the Parker family's prayers are with John and anyone who has been affected."

John Parker fought the last of his three professional bouts in 2017. He was undefeated but was forced to stop boxing the following year after being diagnosed with a brain aneurysm.

A decorated amateur who had built a professional record of 3-0 in the cruiserweight division, John Parker was due to fight on the undercard of his older brother's heavyweight unification fight with Anthony Joshua in Cardiff.

All three of his professional wins had come on the undercard of Joseph Parker fights run by Duco events.