Joseph Dennis Parker, OM, is a famous New Zealand professional boxer known for his exceptional technical ability and formidable strength.
He cemented his legacy in the sport, having held the prestigious World Boxing Organization (WBO) heavyweight title twice.
Parker first won the WBO heavyweight crown in 2016, demonstrating his mastery of the sweet science and establishing himself as one of the preeminent heavyweights of his era.
After a brief hiatus, the Kiwi boxer returned to the ring and regained the WBO interim heavyweight title in March 2024, which further solidified his credentials as a Elite heavyweight contender.
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- Full name: Joseph Dennis Parker
- Stage name: Joseph Parker
- Date of birth: January 9, 1992
- Age: 32 years old
- Place of birth: Auckland, New Zealand
- Nationality: New Zealand
- Occupation: New Zealand professional boxer
- Height: 1.93 m
- Parents: Dempsey Parker and Sala Parker
- Siblings: Elizabeth Parker and John Parker
- Partner: Laine Tavita
- Children: 4
- Relationship: Not married
- Net worth: 5 million USD
Early life and education
Joseph Dennis Parker was born on January 9, 1992 in Auckland, New Zealand. He was born and raised by his parents, Dempsey Parker and Sala Parker. Joseph has an older sister named Elizabeth Parker and a younger brother named John Parker, who is also a professional boxer.
Parker attended Marcellin College in suburban Hillsborough. He is primarily of Samoan descent as his parents immigrated to New Zealand from Samoa in the early 1980s. Parker practices Christianity as his religion.
Career
Joseph Parker began his boxing journey at a young age. His natural talent and dedication to the sport were quickly evident as he enjoyed an impressive amateur career, winning the New Zealand Amateur Heavyweight Championship twice and representing the country. at the 2010 Commonwealth Games.
Turning professional in 2012, Parker wasted no time in making a name for himself on the global boxing scene. His speed, power and technical prowess have earned him recognition as a rising star in the heavyweight division. 2016 Parker’s hard work and perseverance paid off when he defeated Andy Ruiz Jr. to capture the coveted WBO heavyweight championship.
Parker’s reign as WBO heavyweight champion was highlighted by two successful title defenses, cementing his position as one of the world’s top heavyweights. However, his reign ended in 2018 when he lost the title to the formidable Anthony Joshua in a highly anticipated event.
Despite this setback, Parker continued to compete at the highest level, demonstrating his skills against some of the world’s top professional boxers. In 2021, he captured the WBO Intercontinental title, further cementing his status as a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division.
Parker has been involved in a number of notable fights throughout his career, including a win over Andy Ruiz Jr. and fights with Anthony Joshua and David Chisora.
At the regional level, he has also held multiple heavyweight championships, including the WBO Oriental, Africa and Oceania titles as well as the PABA, OPBF and New Zealand titles.
As of March 2024, Joseph Parker is once again in the spotlight as he holds the interim World Boxing Organization (WBO) heavyweight title. This latest achievement is a testament to his resilience, hard work and unwavering dedication to the sport he loves.
Joseph Parker’s journey from young amateur boxer to world champion and now interim title holder is a true testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of excellence. His story continues to captivate boxing fans around the world and his future in the sport remains bright as he continues to write his legacy.
Social Media
- Instagram handle: @joeboxerparker
- Facebook manager: Joseph Parker
- Twitter name: @JoeParkerAD
Personal life
Joseph Parker, the famous professional boxer, has been in an on-and-off relationship with his partner, Laine Tavita, for over a decade. Although the couple is not officially married, Parker and Tavita have been together since their teenage years and their relationship has grown into a beautiful family.
The couple has four children: Elizabeth Ah-Sue Sala Parker, Shiloh Jasmine Parker, Michaela Florence Parker and Esme Dianna Anya Parker.
Net worth
Joseph Parker, a New Zealand professional boxer, has amassed an estimated net worth of more than $5 million, or approximately £3.9 million.
Much of his considerable wealth was generated through his successful career in the boxing ring, with reports suggesting he earned around $20 million as a professional boxer.