Former World Boxing Organisation (WBO) super middleweight champion Maselino Masoe is currently training John Parker for his fight against Fiji’s cruiserweight champion Alivereti Kauyaca, taking place tonight in Hamilton, New Zealand. This bout is for the IBF (International Boxing Federation) Pan Pacific cruiserweight title, and the winner will have the opportunity to rank in the top 15 of the IBF standings.
This fight is significant for Parker as it marks both his first international matchup and his pursuit of a major regional title, an uncommon feat in New Zealand, apart from the events typically organized by Dean Lonergan and Duco Events. The IBF Pan Pacific title holds historical importance in New Zealand boxing, having been claimed by notable fighters such as Shane Cameron, Jimmy Thunder, Kali Meehan, Maselino Masoe, Sean Sullivan, and, in more recent times, Andrei Mikhailovich.
Parker, who is known as the younger brother of fourth-ranked world heavyweight champion Joseph Parker, is determined to establish his own identity and move out of his brother’s shadow. Meanwhile, Kauyaca has made a name for himself in Fiji, excelling in domestic fights and climbing international rankings to break into the top 100 on Boxrec.
Kauyaca’s journey has not been without its challenges. He recently defended his title against veteran Joseph Kwadjo, winning by unanimous decision, but faced allegations of illegal hand wraps containing cement plaster, resulting in him being stripped of the national title. Nevertheless, his unanimous decision win was upheld, and a recent change has permitted him to retain his title.
Following these events, Kauyaca relocated to New Zealand and signed a 12-month contract with CTP Boxing Promotions, led by Craig Thomson.