Former World Boxing Organisation (WBO) super middleweight champion Maselino Masoe is currently training John Parker for his upcoming bout against Fiji’s cruiserweight champion Alivereti Kauyaca in Hamilton, New Zealand. This match is for the IBF (International Boxing Federation) Pan Pacific cruiserweight title, with the victor earning a spot in the top 15 of the IBF rankings.
This fight marks Parker’s debut on the international stage as well as his first opportunity to compete for a major regional title, which is a notable occurrence in New Zealand outside of events organized by Dean Lonergan and Duco Events.
The IBF Pan Pacific title holds considerable significance in New Zealand boxing history, with many legends of the sport, such as Shane Cameron, Jimmy Thunder, Kali Meehan, Maselino Masoe, Sean Sullivan, and more recently, Andrei Mikhailovich, having held this title.
John Parker is known as the younger brother of Joseph Parker, who is ranked fourth in the world heavyweight standings. John is eager to establish his own identity in the boxing world, aiming to step out from under the shadow of his more accomplished sibling.
Kauyaca has gained recognition in Fiji, performing well in domestic competitions and making strides in international rankings, even breaking into the top 100 on Boxrec. However, his journey has been marred by controversy; he recently defended his title against veteran Joseph Kwadjo, winning by unanimous decision, but was stripped of the national title due to allegations regarding his hand wraps containing cement plaster. Nevertheless, the unanimous decision victory remained valid. Recently, Kauyaca received approval to retain his title.
Following this development, Kauyaca has relocated to New Zealand and signed a 12-month contract with CTP Boxing Promotions, represented by Craig Thomson.