Local News

Boxing world champion Joseph Parker taking time to celebrate with family

The Kiwi boxer has won the WBO world heavyweight title.
Loading the player...

New-crowned boxing heavyweight champion Joseph Parker will celebrate his win with a much-earned break to be with family and friends.

Last night’s history making boxing match at Auckland’s Vector Arena saw Joseph Parker take out the title in a match against Mexican Andy Ruiz.

The 12 round epic bout gave Parker the win on points with the three judges’ scoring the match 114-114, 115-113 and 115-113.

Loading the player...

24-year-old was gracious in victory, thanking his opponent Andy Ruiz.

“Thanks you to Andy Ruiz and his team for putting on a hard fight. I told you Andy was a great fighter with a lot of speed and he showed that tonight.”

Parker ‘s determination to take the WBO world title was apparent throughout the match, although the pair showed a clash of styles, commentators report.

Joseph Parker’s relentless training regime kept him focused and sharp. Photo: Getty Images

His mother Sala, as promised, entered the ring for the first time to join the celebrations.

In a post-fight press conference Joseph reacted to last night’s win calling it “a dream come true” and said this title fight was just the beginning.

“Now that we’ve won this, we’re going to dominate the heavyweight division. That’s our goal. The goal is now to win, keeping winning and unify those belts.”

Loading the player...

For now though the world champion will take a break for some much deserved time to be with family and his new baby daughter Elizabeth.

“I couldn’t have done it without my team. I just want to take some time to celebrate with my team, my trainer, Duco events, family, friends. What a great feeling it is.”

Duco Events co-owner Dean Lonergan told Stuff the boxer would be back after Christmas.

“Joe has indicated he wants a bit of a break over Christmas which is understandable because he has had a hard three and a half years. So he will take a break, he will go back into camp and he’ll fight.”

Related stories