Joshua vs Parker: Preview for world heavyweight title unification fight
Written by News on 31/03/2018
Anthony Joshua’s ambitions of being the undisputed world heavyweight champion will be within touching distance if he takes the WBO title from Joseph Parker in Cardiff.
Background
The British star already holds the WBA ‘super’ and IBF titles, and attempts to rip the WBO belt from Parker in a massive unification clash in front of 78,000 fans at the Principality Stadium this Saturday night, live on Sky Sports Box Office.
But the New Zealander has calmly soaked up the pre-fight hype, displaying an inner steel when asked whether he can handle the big stage alongside AJ.
Mutual respect has been evident from the start, with both fighters pushing their bodies to limit in preparation, and they displayed leaner than usual physiques at Friday’s weigh-in.
Joshua’s fearsome power will test the renowned chin of his opponent, who has never been off his feet, while Parker intends to perplex the bigger man with his speed of foot and fist.
Only one champion will emerge with three major world titles, setting up a winner-takes-all showdown with WBC king Deontay Wilder.
What the fighters say
What the promoters say
What the experts say
What the rivals say
Essential reading
The weigh-in
Anthony Joshua: 17st 4lbs 2oz
Joseph Parker: 16st 12lbs 7oz
The time draws near…
(c) Sky News 2018: Joshua vs Parker: Preview for world heavyweight title unification fight
