Joseph Parker proved as good as his word as he became the first New Zealand-born heavyweight world boxing champion.
An impressive Parker battled hard over the back end of the fight to beat Mexico's Andy Ruiz in Auckland on Saturday night to win the vacant WBO belt by unanimous points.
The judges scored it 114-114, 115-113, 115-113 – a reflection of how close it was.
The 24-year-old believed he was in the best shape of his career and promised to use his increased weight and size alongside his noted jab and hand speed to torment Ruiz.
Parker extends his unbeaten run to 22 fights and celebrated in style in the ring after his win against Ruiz.
Meanwhile, well known boxing guru Bob Arum who has promoted boxers for more than 50 years had earlier confirmed that he would team up with Parkers promoters, Duco Events if he won the match.
He had also confirmed that he would help promote Parker in the lucrative US and European market.
Source: stuff.co.nz
Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations
