Former World Boxing Organization (WBO) super middleweight champion Maselino Masoe is now coaching John Parker in preparation for his fight against Fiji’s cruiserweight champion Alivereti Kauyaca in Hamilton, New Zealand. This bout is for the IBF (International Boxing Federation) Pan Pacific cruiserweight title, with the winner set to advance into the top 15 of the IBF rankings.
This fight marks Parker’s first international match and his first major regional title challenge, a significant event in New Zealand’s boxing scene, which usually features promotions by Dean Lonergan and Duco Events. The IBF Pan Pacific title holds substantial prestige in New Zealand, having been held by notable figures such as Shane Cameron, Jimmy Thunder, Kali Meehan, Maselino Masoe, Sean Sullivan, and more recently, Andrei Mikhailovich.
John Parker is recognized as the younger brother of Joseph Parker, who ranks fourth in the world heavyweight category. John aims to carve out his own identity in boxing and step out from his brother’s shadow.
Alivereti Kauyaca has gained recognition in Fiji for his strong domestic performance and success in international rankings, reaching the top 100 on Boxrec. However, Kauyaca’s journey has encountered challenges, including a recent title defense against veteran Joseph Kwadjo, which he won by unanimous decision. Despite winning, he was stripped of his national title due to allegations of using illegal hand wraps containing cement plaster. Nevertheless, the unanimous decision victory was upheld. Recently, the decision was reversed, allowing Kauyaca to retain his title.
After these events, Kauyaca has relocated to New Zealand and has signed a 12-month contract with CTP Boxing Promotions, led by Craig Thomson.