Anthony Joshua on Sunday confirmed his next fight with New Zealander Joseph Parker. According to him, the fight is set on March 31, at Principality Stadium, in Cardiff, which usually hosts the matches of the Welsh rugby team.
“I would like to announce the official announcement that I and Joseph Parker will fight on March 31 at Cardiff Principality Stadium,” Joshua said.
“It’s a fight for the unification of heavyweight titles. The fight is not easy because the stakes are huge, so respect for the Parker team to meet this challenge.” Joshua added
The 28-year-old Briton currently holds three of the five heavyweight titles: he has won the IBO, WBA, and IBF world belts, while Parker is the champion in title for the WBO.
If he won over Parker, Joshua would then face WBC champion Deontay Wilder of the United States to become the first boxer in history to hold all five titles.
The 2012 Olympic champion has also suggested he would be ready to fight against his compatriot Tyson Fury, who has not fought since his victory against Wladimir Klitschko in November 2015.
Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn on the other side, he told very happy with the deal and he believes both fighters will produce fireworks at first press conference.
“I am delighted that this fight is being held. It’s been a while since it was ready. The champions have to face the champions and AJ.” Hearn said.
“I was joking with Parkers’ promoter [David] Higgins yesterday. The truly believe they knock AJ out. It’s not even in question for them.
“We feel otherwise. You’re going to see a lot of fireworks this press conference. David Higgins has got a lot of to say for himself, he’s a funny character, and Anthony Joshua doesn’t like what Joseph Parker has been saying. This could be the first time we’ve seen the switch of Anthony Joshua, and I’m excited to see it.” Hearn added.
Joseph Parker defends his WBO title over Hughie Fury last year. (Source:www.stuff.nz.co)
Parker, meanwhile, he has been unhappy with comments from Joshua. The 26-year-old boxer claimed that he can’t wait to beat his opponent this year.
“It’s going to be a shock for Anthony Joshua. A few months ago, I heard him say, “Why should I be worried about this little guy from New Zealand?” Well, now he will understand why. And the world of boxing will know if “AJ” can really take shots,” Parker said.
