Joe Parker Hailed as World’s Best Heavyweight – Trainer Calls for Title Shot

On February 22, at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Joseph Parker (36-3, 24 KOs) impressed once again, stopping late replacement Martin Bakole (21-2, 16 KOs) in the second round of their heavyweight clash to retain the WBO interim title. Following this impressive win, Parker made it clear he was prepared to face anyone, and his trainer Andy Lee spoke to The Stomping Ground, praising his fighter, while calling for the chance to challenge for a world title.

Trainer Backs Joseph Parker for Title Shot After Big Win

Joseph Parker Praised Following Bakole Win

Parker had been due to face Daniel Dubois for the IBF title before The Ring reported that the British fighter had fallen ill and would not move forward with his world title defence. Three opponents were mentioned as a replacement with The Ring reporting it was between Lawrence Okolie, David Adeleye and Mourad Aliev. However, it was quickly confirmed that fearsome Congolese puncher Bakole would step forward as a late replacement. Despite his bravery in taking the fight on such short notice, he was ultimately stopped in the second round.

Following this latest win, Parker’s trainer Andy Lee spoke about his fighters prepartion and the benefit of this: “He was training for eight weeks, he’s sparred plenty of rounds,” said Lee. “He’s been in Saudi Arabia for three weeks.

“He’s done the best conditioning, the best preparation that anybody could have had. Poor Martin had to fly halfway around the world.”

Praise and What’s Next for Joseph Parker

Praising the Kiwi fighter and looking at what they want next, Lee said: “We had all the advantages in there. For me, he’s the best heavyweight in the world right now. Give him the chance to prove it. Joe can match [Usyk]

“It worked out well, and it’s another win. Look at who we have on the resume. Give us a title fight next. Joe needs a title fight.”