People on social media are applauding South Auckland-born boxer Joseph Parker, despite his loss, with former champion Lennox Lewis saying Parker has a strong future.
Joseph Parker. Photo: Photosport
Parker went toe-to-toe with Joshua today in Cardiff in a heavyweight unification bout that stretched the full 12 rounds - a first for Joshua who has never boxed past 11 rounds.
There was a big turnout at cosmopolitan clubs and RSAs around the country to watch the match, which saw the winner take three of four major title belts.
The fourth belt, the WBC heavyweight title, is currently held by American Deontay Wilder.
Parker, who is of Samoan descent, also had people gathering around screens in the island nation to watch the match.
Meanwhile in Joseph Parker’s village in Samoa local villagers, friends and family gather around a small TV to support the nations son. Beautiful #TeamParker #JoshuaParker pic.twitter.com/lwextEeVmf
— ♕ina (e-na) • (@4EverINAxo) March 31, 2018
To represent Parker's heritage, the crowd at Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff was treated to not one but three national anthems on his behalf.
The Samoan anthem 'The Banner of Freedom' was performed first, followed by 'God Defend New Zealand' in both te reo Māori and English.
Yes Joe you make them listen to three anthems #JoshuaParker pic.twitter.com/zv9lvvQpfm
— LaniSays (@LeilaniJM) March 31, 2018
And the mood was hopeful for the underdog going in to the fight.
Every other pacific islander: Happy Easter Sunday!
— nerd™ (@Itsnotsansan) March 31, 2018
Samoans: JOSEPH PARKER! JOSEPH PARKER! JOSEPH PARKER! JOSEPH PARKER!
I’m no sure if everyone who’s saying Joseph Parker has a power disadvantage has ever watched Samoans play rugby #JoshuaParker
— George Brunton (@George_Brunton) March 31, 2018
If wrestling has taught me anything, it's that Samoans are tough as nails. Joseph Parker isn't gonna get blown out in 3 rounds. If he does, then it's a huge statement from AJ. #JoshuaParker
— Bilal-sensei (@bhym1) March 31, 2018
Despite going the distance, Parker lost the fight in a unanimous points decision. Though he can lay claim to taking Joshua to his first ever 12-round match.
The 26-year-old from Mangere left the ring with his head held high, and his supporters poured out their love on social media.
@joeboxerparker Definitely nothing to hang ur head for. Learn from this experience, learn new tactics and keep on pushing. Hands that fast have much further to take u than this. You’ve done NZ proud but ur not done. Bless
— Lennox Lewis (@LennoxLewis) April 1, 2018
Great effort by Joseph Parker - young enough to come back and gracious in defeat #teamparker #pacificboxing
— Pacific Boxing (@PacificBoxing) March 31, 2018
Regardless of the result. Joseph Parker showed that he belonged tonight. He is a legitimate, world class heavyweight. This isn't the last we will see of him on this stage either. Aotearoa and Samoa, be proud of your boy! #TEAMPARKER #JoshuaParker ✊
— Jordan Patu (@Jordan_Patu) March 31, 2018
So proud of Joseph Parker tonight. The bro did amazingly well. Love you and love your passion for Nz and Samoa. We love you bro
— Craig Newby (@craignewby6) March 31, 2018
