Joseph Parker's next opponent says the New Zealand heavyweight shouldn't have the mandatory challenge to the IBF title.
Alexander Dimitrenko. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The German based Russian boxer Alexander Dimitrenko will fight the undefeated Parker in Auckland on October 1.
Back in May Parker won a unanimous decision over French heavyweight Carlos Takam to gain the mandatory challenge to the IBF title which currently held by Great Britain's Anthony Joshua.
Speaking to media today, Dimitrenko stood by claims he made earlier in the year that he felt Takam had won the fight.
"If the fight was in France, the fight would have gone to Takam," Dimitrenko said.
Joseph Parker v Carlos Takam Photo: PhotoSport
Dimitrenko will be one of Parker's toughest opponents yet, he'll also be the tallest at 2.01m.
The former European champion has also won 38 of his 40 fights, 24 of them by way of knockout.
The 34-year-old said he's confident he can be the man to stop Parker in his tracks but believes he'll have to do it by way of knockout to avoid a similar fate to Takam.
"I'm happy with my preparations. I feel good. I'm looking forward to winning this fight. I have nothing to lose in this fight. The pressure is on him, not me. I'm really relaxed. I enjoy being the underdog."
-RNZ
