The government’s continued support for Samoa’s world heavyweight champion, Lupesoloai Joseph Parker, has the widespread backing from members of the public.

The government had donated US$100,000 for Parker to host his world heavyweight fight in Auckland where he defeated Andy Ruiz Jnr for the WBO title.

With the title defence already the topic of conversation, many people in Samoa believe the government should continue to back Parker.

Lucy Amani of Matautu says Parker has made Samoa very proud and he deserves the funding support.

“Definitely,” Lucy said. “Joseph Parker deserves the support of Samoa. He is one of us and we want to show how proud we are.”

Leaghan Crichton and Louise Hunt, who are Samoans based in Australia, agree.

“This is a worthy cause for Samoa to support. We believe the government should continue to fund his bouts if possible.”

For George Sola of Faleula his opinion is definitely biased. He shares the same village as the champion.

“Joseph Parker achieved great things for Samoa. This is kind of a promotion for Samoa and the financial support strengthens it. It is a win win situation.”

Timothy Salale Moananu, of Apia, could not agree more .

“Joseph Parker has done great things for our nation. We are proud of him and we are solidly behind him. By the way, this is a great promotion for Samoa.”

Johnny Naeymal of Puipa’a believes Samoa is paying peanuts for the exposure it is receiving.

“Of cause they should continue to support him. It is like a give and take. He presented Samoa overseas and this is a way to support him. To me, this is a great investment.”

But even non Samoans believe the government is on the right track.

Marcus Shimchick of Washington DC said Samoa should continue to help.

“He should get moral support because of what he has achieved.”