As the countdown continues to the massive heavyweight unification clash between Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker in Cardiff next month, former champ Tyson Fury has offered to assist his New Zealand pal in his bid to end Joshua's unbeaten record.

Parker, the WBO title-holder is currently busy preparing for the mouth-watering bout in his training camp in Las Vegas and Fury, who himself has been hard at work, getting into shape in anticipation of a long-awaited comeback this year, has repeatedly stated his interest in being ready to help finalise 26-year-old's preparations.

The self-styled Gypsy King, who has been shaking off the rust and the pounds after a turbulent 27-month hiatus from the ring in an intensive training regime in Marbella, wanted to spar against Parker when he arrives in London prior to facing off against Joshua in the Principality Stadium.

Parker's trainer Kevin Barry, however, has confirmed the Kiwi will not be accepting Fury's proposal.

And perhaps wisely, admitted it would have been quite risky to put his man in the ring with someone of Fury's pedigree so close to fight night.

"Tyson put his hand up to help us in the last two weeks once we arrived," Barry told Sky Sports News.

"Really, two weeks out, we don't need to be getting in there with a 6ft 9in Tyson Fury!

"Tyson's a great friend of our team and we appreciate all the support he gives us, but that just doesn't work out for us."

Fury and Parker became acquainted when the New Zealander came to Manchester last year to successfully defend his belt against Tyson's cousin, Hughie Fury.

Although disappointed with the outcome of that fight, the Gypsy King held no grudge against Parker and the two have since remained in contact.

Fury has made no secret in the media of his antipathy towards Joshua and will be firmly supporting the underdog New Zealander come fight night.

Respective belts and reputations will be on the line on March 31 and Parker will be heartened to know he has the backing of the giant Fury.