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Home » EXCLUSIVE: Trainer Kevin Barry wants Joseph Parker to let his hands go against Dillian Whyte

EXCLUSIVE: Trainer Kevin Barry wants Joseph Parker to let his hands go against Dillian Whyte

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The New Zealander’s last two fights have been on UK soil, against Hughie Fury and Anthony Joshua.

Neither fights were instant classics, but Parker has his chance to put that right when he faces off against Whyte at the O2 on Saturday.

“This fight is very much about our commercial viability in the UK,” Barry exclusively told World Boxing News in London. “We fought Hughie Fury and he ran backwards for twelve rounds.

“We fought Joshua and we thought he would engage more but he was actually content to box and use his skill.

“It is very important for us that Joe lets his hands go on Saturday night and he shows us what he’s been showing us all the way to the world title – his blistering hand speed and combination from angles.”

In Whyte, Parker could have the dance partner he craves in terms of bringing an all-action fight.

“Dillian Whyte likes to come forward, he likes to bring pressure, he’s a physical very strong, powerful guy who we have a lot of respect for. It’s also a style I like for Joseph. I’ve always liked fighters that come on to Joe’s speed and his power,” Barry pointed out.

When asked whether they have a game plan to make it an exciting fight, the Kiwi trainer replied: “Of course we have a game plan. We’re not fighting a 6’6 guy with an 84” inch reach moving backwards. We are fighting a guy who would love nothing more than for Joe to engage with him and fight him in a telephone booth.”

No major titles will be on the line when the heavyweight pair collide on Saturday, but there could be a long road back for the loser, whereas the winner can start to look towards world title shots.

“We have two fighters who have an enormous amount to lose and a lot to win,” said Barry. “This is a big fight, this is a dangerous fight for Joseph Parker and it’s a very dangerous fight for Dillian Whyte, and I think the boxing fans acknowledge that neither guy needed to take this fight.

“The winner of this fight will be in a very good position and will be one step closer to getting a world title shot,” concluded the Las Vegas-based coach.

Thomas Davison is a staff writer for World Boxing News. Follow Thomas on Twitter @thomasdavison93