Parker’s final rally cry: “I’m ready for war”

By James Lloyd - Samoa Observer correspondence 30 March 2018, 12:00AM

Lupesoliai La’auliolemalietoa Joseph Parker has sent out his final rallying cry as he and Anthony Joshua faced off for the final time ahead of tomorrow’s hugely anticipated heavyweight unification bout at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium.

Lupesoliai, born to Samoan parents Dempsey and Sala, arrived on stage to a traditional Siva Tua dance and haka in front of a packed out Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff, at Friday’s weigh-in.

Parker weighed in at 16st 12lbs 7oz, with rival Joshua his lightest in four years at 17st 4lbs 2oz.

And the 26-year-old says he’s “ready for war” when the two giants go toe-to-toe in the Welsh capital with the WBO, IBF, WBA and IBO heavyweight titles on the line.

He said: “I’m ready for anything, I’m here for a good fight and I’m here for war. You’re going to have to give me everything to beat me.

 “The first few rounds, we can either test each other out or go for the kill. We’ll see who executes the game plan well and to the best ability.

 “The biggest thing for me is the challenge of fighting. The result will take care of itself, I’m here to win.”

Parker, the current WBO belt holder, holds an undefeated record of 24 wins with 18 by knockout. His opponent, Brit, Anthony Joshua also boasts an undefeated record with a perfect win to knockout record in his 20 fights.

Parker acknowledged his rival is in good shape but insists he is fully prepared for the historic bout; the first heavyweight unification fight to be held on British soil.

 “He’s taking this fight seriously,” he insisted. “He’s trained very hard. He’s in good shape but I’m in good shape too. There’s not much in weight difference, we’re both going to be fast tomorrow night, both will move well and throw some big bombs.

 “I saw confidence, he’s a good champion and I’m expecting a really good fight. We’ve done everything we can in our preparation. There is nothing to worry about, just follow it, do it well and execute it.”

By James Lloyd - Samoa Observer correspondence 30 March 2018, 12:00AM

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