Joseph Parker turns up the heat at Las Vegas training

Joseph Parker

It's a city of tourists, gamblers, pleasure seekers, who all flock to Las Vegas from around the world to cut loose.

The neon signs, hotels, fountains, money and personalities are a far cry from Parker's upbringing in south Auckland, and as partygoers head home after a night out, he's getting up at 5am for training.

He describes training in the early hours as a love-hate relationship, but it's a combination of both dedication and practicality - temperatures can reach up to 42degC by midday in the city.

But sharing the heat is Parker's fellow training partner and heavyweight, Izu Ugonoh. Together the pair tackle running up steps, hills and smashing out burpees in between.

So how is the athlete staying focused and grounded in Sin City where temptation waits around every corner?

Ahead of his next fight with Solomon Haumono, Story caught up with the heavyweight to talk training, staying driven and the challenge ahead, which could set him up for life.

Watch the video for the full Story report.

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