Former WBO world super middleweight champion Maselino Masoe is currently training John Parker for his upcoming fight against Fiji cruiserweight champion Alivereti Kauyaca in Hamilton, New Zealand tonight. This bout is for the IBF Pan Pacific cruiserweight title, and the victor will have the opportunity to break into the top 15 of the IBF rankings.
This fight marks Parker’s first international contest as well as his first shot at a major regional title, a rare occurrence in New Zealand apart from the usual promotions led by Dean Lonergan and Duco Events. The IBF Pan Pacific title is regarded as a prestigious title in New Zealand, having been held by notable boxers such as 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 is currently ranked fourth in the world heavyweight rankings. He is focused on establishing his own identity in the sport and stepping out from his brother’s shadow.
On the other hand, Kauyaca has gained recognition in Fiji, succeeding domestically and climbing the international rankings to reach the top 100 on Boxrec. His recent title defense against veteran Joseph Kwadjo ended in a unanimous decision victory; however, he faced controversy as he was stripped of the national title due to allegations of illegal hand wraps containing cement plaster. Nevertheless, the decision of the title strip was later reversed, allowing Kauyaca to retain the title.
Following this development, Kauyaca has relocated to New Zealand and signed a 12-month contract with CTP Boxing Promotions, led by Craig Thomson.