By Cihat Gemici
Last month, it was confirmed by Dave Higgins from Duco Events that WBO heavyweight champion Joseph Parker (22-0, 18 KOs) would make a mandatory defense against undefeated Hughie Fury at the Vector Arena in New Zealand on May 6th.
Parker took some time out of his ongoing training camp to answer a few questions from BoxingScene.com.
Your full name is Joseph Dennis Parker Lupesoliai La'auliolemalietoa. Can you tell us what it means?
Joseph D. Parker is the name my parents gave me when I was born. Lupesoliao is my Samoan chief name that was given to me by the Prime Minister of Samoa.
You are a New Zealander with roots to Samoa. Would you tell us about your family roots with Samoa, and your family?
Both my parents Salavao Parker and Damsy Parker were born in Samoa and moved to New Zealand for a better future. Since I was born we have traveled to Samoa every year to holiday and spent time with family. Doing so, I was able to learn more about the culture and pick up on my Samoan speaking. Samoa is my other home and I love the place. I have 2 siblings. Younger brother John Parker who is 23 years old. He is also a professional boxer. Older sister Elizabeth Parker, who is 26 and is currently studying Law at Auckland University.
What was the reason that led you to boxing in a country more commonly identified with rugby? Was boxing a dream in your childhood or did someone lead you to boxing?
My dad always wanted to box but he couldn’t due to a disability. From a young age he introduced us to the sport of boxing; and the rest is history
You defeated important boxers such as Andy Ruiz Jr, Dimitrenko, and Carlos Takam, and eventually won the WBO belt. Who was the most challenging opponent? Why?
All of them were challenging in their own respects as they each have their own strengths
Who is your first goal to unification? WBC champion Deontay Wilder called you out after the Gerald Washington bout. Do you think that Wilder hasn’t fought anybody as good as you?
My goal for now is to focus on the Hughie Fury fight
Who is your favorite fighter in the past and current?
Lennox Lewis and Roy Jones Jnr in his prime
Would you share us something about you that people will be surprised to learn?
I used to be in the church choir
I hear that you play piano. Is it true? What kind of music do you like? Who is your favourite singer or band?
I like Mozart - all sorts -
What’s your favorite move in the ring? Which feature of you is makes you different from others?
I believe that we all bring different things to the table, which makes things exciting
If you could have dinner with four people in the history of the world, who would be on your guest list?
My mum and dad, Bruce Lee, Elvis Presley
