Parker vs Joshua: The New Zealander in Anthony Joshua's corner for unification bout

  • 22/03/2018

There will be a Kiwi in Anthony Joshua's corner for next Sunday's heavyweight boxing unification bout against Joseph Parker at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.

Wellington's Mark Campbell is the British champion's strength and conditioning coach, and he has been pushing Joshua to the limit, helping him to get fit and ready for the highly anticipated bout. 

The 28-year-old Joshua, the WBA 'super' and IBF title holder, is fighting Parker for his WBO belt as both boxers look to become the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.

Parker vs Joshua: The New Zealander in Anthony Joshua's corner for unification bout

Speaking to Newshub at Joshua's training facilities in Sheffield, Campbell said there have been a few raised eyebrows about him being in the Brit's corner.

"I'm getting a bit of grief because of my accent in this environment," he said.

"Joshua is asking me 'who am I going to be backing in this fight', but I'm definitely on Joshua's side.

"I'm not British by any means, and I'm a proud Kiwi, but I have the utmost respect and passion for the ones I work with, so they are the ones I'll support."

Before linking up with Joshua, Campbell worked in New Zealand professional rugby, and he said he has never seen any athlete like Joshua before.

"Joshua is one of the most dedicated I have ever worked with over the last nine, 10 years. He has done everything little thing to get him into shape.

"Joshua has got some physical talents that I have never seen before, even in professional rugby.

"He has got everything he needs, the dedication and hard work pushes him to another level."

Newshub.