Evander Holyfield Backs Joseph Parker For Big Things

Joseph Parker has received some heavyweight support ahead of his fight against Kali Meehan in Auckland on Thursday with boxing legend Evander "The Real Deal" Holyfield getting behind the Kiwi boxer.

Holyfield, the only four-time heavyweight world champion, sent a tweet to Parker, urging him to fight like the "New Deal" as he looks to extend his perfect 15-0 record against the 45-year-old veteran.

The message was accompanied with a photo of Holyfield posing in a Team Parker T-shirt.

"Joseph Parker @joeboxerparker – on 15th Oct - Fight like you the "New Deal" from the "Real Deal" #NewDeal #RealDeal" Holyfield tweeted.

And Parker was quick to thank the American great, replying: "EH thanks for the support. Big fan of yours and look forward to seeing you again soon. "Real Deal" #NewDeal"

Parker faces a fierce test against the vastly experienced Meehan, who has 42 wins and five losses.

Meehan also has a height and reach advantage and is slightly heavier, tipping the scales at 110.6kg to Parker's 107kg at Wednesday's weigh-in.