Five ways Parker can save his career
Here’s Duncan Johnstone guide to how the Kiwi fighter must get the edge over Chisora.
IT’S been a while since Joseph Parker has found himself in such an intriguing position as his fight against Dereck Chisora presents.
The two clash in Manchester this morning (NZT) and Parker, at a crossroads in his career, needs a big result to push on.
Chisora represents a real roadblock with his physical presence and attacking style, backed up by experience against opponents of genuine class.
With a new trainer on board in the respected Andy Lee, there is an expectation of some instant improvements by Parker.
That can be a burden or a motivator. Here are some key areas under inspection where Parker must deliver if he is to win and remain relevant.
POWER
This is the biggest intrigue. Both Parker and Lee have spoken about some new bite to his punches as they work on his delivery technique and balance. Since his dual losses in 2018 Parker has won three of his last four fights by stoppage, though the quality of some opposition has been questionable. Chisora is a step up in experience and durability. Parker will need to connect sweetly to KO him. Parker’s power has been in question for the elite level of the division and a good response here is crucial if he is to push on with his hopes of winning another world title.
AGGRESSION
Parker has a contract extension on the line, with Chisora being the last of his original deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing. He needs to make a statement. He’s a real technician and that has been a key to his success, but there’s a feeling he must show more outright attack. He has been guilty of too many ‘‘what-ifs’’ in his three fights in Britain where, despite two losses and a debated win, he has attracted quite a following. Hearn will be wanting more X-factor. Parker has long been hailed for his fast hands – they need to get moving again.
RESILIENCE
Parker’s jaw has never been in question, nor has his stamina as he has happily taken fights deep into the championship rounds, often content to go the distance. Both could be examined by Chisora who has a fighting style to back his ‘‘WAR’’ nickname.
Win or lose, Parker is likely to take some punishment. There’s been plenty of talk about an early finish to this fight, but it could just as easily go to the judges. If that happens, Parker needs to be the man making an impression over the closing rounds.
CONCENTRATION
Chisora’s attack can be relentless, and he is a master technician in close-range combat where his short punches carry deceptive power. One slip of the guard could be disastrous for Parker as his old adversary, the respected Carlos Takam, found out against Chisora who adopted a ‘‘ropea-dope’’ approach but then produced a stunning KO. Lee has targeted this as an area of real attention with Parker in their limited buildup and is demanding total attention in every round. Lee knows Parker can’t go to sleep, or he will be put to sleep.
PATIENCE
Parker admits he has too often fallen victim to his own desire to go for early knockouts and has had to settle for points wins or late stoppages. Lee expects a furious start by Chisora and says he’s even happy for Parker to concede an early round or two, as long as he’s not taking too much damage. It’s a rare occasion where Parker will enjoy a height and reach advantage, and he needs to maximise that when he can, using his jab to buy some time and set up opportunities. Shot selection will be vital against a tough customer like this.