Boxing: 'This is the fight with the most at stake'

Joseph Parker (left) is ranked No 8 in the WBO compared with Bowie Tupou's No 13. Photo / Getty Images

Kevin Barry has described Joseph Parker's fight against Bowie Tupou tonight as the most significant of his career as the New Zealander eyes a move up the rankings which will put him in touching distance of a world title challenge.

After watching Parker weigh in at a trim and powerful 107.5kg at Stadium Southland in Invercargill, the venue for the sold-out bout which will be screened live in North America by broadcaster ESPN, Barry spoke of the need for the 23-year-old to closely follow the fight plan but also about the threat the 120.5kg Tupou possesses.

A victory will see Parker considered one of the top five heavyweights in the world and will make his launch into the United States next year a potentially more lucrative one.

Trainer Barry spoke of the previous highlights in Parker's undefeated 14-fight professional career, describing his victory over Brian Minto in Manukau 12 months ago as "flawless" and his stunning knockout of Brazilian champion Ireneu Beato Costa Junior in Hamilton in December as "very, very dominant and explosive", but said Parker was in much better shape in terms of his conditioning and skillset now.

"The August 1, 2015, Joseph Parker is the best I've ever seen," Barry said.

"We've brought his body fat percentage down, you can see how much more muscle he's got on his frame. He's very fast at this weight, he's very strong.

"This is the fight with the most at stake. There is a lot of risk here but also a lot of gain. This is a fight which Joseph needs at this stage.

"We're fighting a very big, strong and powerful guy who I believe will bring out the best in Joe."

Tongan-Australian Tupou, ranked No 13 in the WBO to Parker's No 8, has lost about 12kg for the fight under the direction of Jeff Fenech. The weight loss will help with his speed and stamina, and it's unlikely to have affected his power if the size of his legs are any indication.

"He's a powerful guy," Barry said. "The power base is your legs and he's got huge legs. He's got calves like David Tua. I have pointed that out to Joe a number of times. I said 'you stand in the pocket in front of this guy with your left hand down and he lands that overhand right, we're in trouble'.

Parker has been a professional for only three years, but expectations are rising both in and outside the Parker camp. With the eyes of the boxing world on him, there is pressure on Parker to win and win well.

Joseph Parker
Age: 23
Height: 1.93m
Weight: 107.5kg
Record: 14-0 (12 KOs)

Bowie Tupou
Age: 32
Height: 1.89m
Weight: 120.5kg
Record: 25-3 (17 wins by KO)