Joseph Parker's trainer, Kevin Barry, says Saturday's WBO world heavyweight title fight in Auckland will be the "best heavyweight matchup of the year".
The 24-year-old New Zealand Samoan Parker is unbeaten in 21 fights with 18 knockouts, while his opponent, Mexican-American Andy Ruiz Jr, has not lost in 29 pro bouts, including 19 knockouts.
Ruiz is coached by world renowned trainer Abel Sanchez, a man with 17 world champions to his name.
Boxing trainers Abel Sanchez and Kevin Barry. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Barry himself is yet to train a world champion but he believes that'll change this weekend.
"When this fight was made, forget about being a coach, as a boxing fan, and the people I spoke to, said this fight is a great fight," he said.
"I've always thought that this is the best heavyweight matchup of the year.
"This will be the most exciting fight in the heavyweight division this year."
Kevin Barry said he and Parker aren't afraid of the biggest challenge of their careers while both trainers expect the fight to go the full 12 rounds.
Joseph Parker during a training session with trainer Kevin Barry before his WBO title bout with Andy Ruiz. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
