Joseph Parker: 'Great day to be the champ'

Joseph Parker is feeling positive ahead of his world heavyweight title fight. Photo / Andrew Cornaga, www.photosport.nz

Team walk fight day 👊🏼

Posted by Joseph Parker on Friday, December 9, 2016

With only a few hours left until walking onto the biggest stage of his life, world heavyweight title contender Joseph Parker is feeling positive.

In Auckland this morning, Parker, his coach Kevin Barry and a group of "Team Parker'' friends and family took a stroll at Auckland's Albert Park for some fresh air.

Capturing some of their time out on a video shared online, the 24-year-old looked relaxed ahead of his fight against Mexican-American Andy Ruiz; talking to his mates and at one point, singing.

Before briefly asking his coach about what he should say to fans, the boxer smiles to the camera.

"Good morning everyone...We just wanna say thank you for the great support. Feel the love from everyone all over the country.

"We're just going through our team walk now, getting the fresh air in the morning.''

Coach Barry quickly says: "It's a great day to win the title.''

Parker pipes up: ''Great day to be the champ,'' he says with a cheeky wink.

A friend can be heard teasing Parker slightly, calling out: "And the new!'' - referring to what the ring announcer says at the end of a fight when announcing a new champion.

The boxer takes no notice of it, but acknowledges today is the "big day'' before singing to Kendrick Lamar and Mary J Blige's catchy - and fitting - song: Now or Never.

"I'm so high, I can touch the sky. I know it's my time and it's now or never.''