Joseph Parker: Joshua Has Rematch Clause, But I Don't Need One

By Keith Idec

Joseph Parker will be compensated well for his heavyweight title unification fight with Anthony Joshua.

According to multiple reports, New Zealand’s Parker will be paid approximately £7 million, roughly $9.6 million, for traveling to Cardiff, Wales, to battle Joshua on March 31. As the obvious ‘B’ side of this promotion, however, he’ll only get one shot to knock off the British superstar.

England’s Joshua has a rematch clause in the event he loses to Parker, but Parker doesn’t have one. Parker appeared unfazed following a press conference Tuesday by the thought of having to defeat Joshua twice before being able to head in a different direction.

A Sky Sports reporter asked Parker after the press conference about the possibility of making more money than Joshua for their rematch if he pulls off an upset in 2½ months at Principality Stadium. Joshua (20-0, 20 KOs), the IBF/IBO/WBA champion, reportedly could earn about £15 million, which equates to approximately $20.6 million, for fighting Parker (24-0, 18 KOs), the WBO champ.

“There’s a rematch clause for him, so if I do win I don’t need a rematch clause,” Parker told Sky Sports. “I’m putting everything into March 31, so it doesn’t matter taking the short end of the stick. We’re happy with the deal, they’re happy with the deal. So everything’s done now. It’s just time to get it on. I think there’s enough talking, all contracts are signed, so we’re looking forward to it. It’s an exciting time to be a heavyweight.”

The 26-year-old Parker, who has won each of his three WBO heavyweight title bouts by decision, doesn’t think he needs to knock out the 28-year-old Joshua to win their scheduled 12-round fight.

“I’m gonna come here in the best shape I’ve ever been in,” Parker said. “I’m gonna put on a great performance. I’m gonna box the best I’ve ever boxed and if a knockout comes, it comes. But I think if you’re looking for it, you won’t get it. But I know I have the power to knock him out.”

Keith Idec is a senior writer/columnist for BoxingScene.com. He can be reached on Twitter @Idecboxing.