Former World Boxing Organisation super middleweight champion Maselino Masoe is currently training John Parker for his upcoming fight against Fiji cruiserweight champion Alivereti Kauyaca in Hamilton, New Zealand. This match is for the IBF Pan Pacific cruiserweight title, and the winner will have the opportunity to break into the top 15 of the IBF rankings.
This bout represents Parker’s first international fight and serves as an opportunity for him to compete for a major regional title, a rarity in New Zealand outside the usual events organized by Dean Lonergan and Duco Events.
The IBF Pan Pacific title is an important accolade in New Zealand boxing, with past holders including notable boxers like Shane Cameron, Jimmy Thunder, Kali Meehan, Maselino Masoe, Sean Sullivan, and more recently, Andrei Mikhailovich.
Parker is recognized as the younger brother of Joseph Parker, who ranks fourth in the world heavyweight division. He is determined to establish his own identity in the sport and step out of his brother’s shadow.
Kauyaca has gained recognition in Fiji, performing well in local matches, advancing in international rankings, and reaching the top 100 on Boxrec. Recently, he defended his title against veteran Joseph Kwadjo, winning by unanimous decision. However, he was stripped of the national title due to allegations surrounding illegal hand wraps that allegedly contained cement plaster. Despite losing the title, his victory by unanimous decision was upheld.
The decision regarding the title has since been reversed, allowing Kauyaca to retain it. Following this, he relocated to New Zealand and signed a 12-month contract with CTP Boxing Promotions, led by Craig Thomson.