Trainer Andy Lee believes Joseph Parker is in the best shape of his career as he prepares for a crucial heavyweight title fight against Daniel Dubois in Saudi Arabia. After spending three weeks adjusting to the climate and training on a late-night schedule to match fight conditions, Parker is physically and mentally ready for the challenge.
Lee, a former world champion turned trainer, has helped Parker rebuild his career since they joined forces in 2021. Under his guidance, Parker has won seven of his last eight fights, including victories over Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang.
Now, he aims to reclaim world champion status by defeating IBF belt-holder Dubois in the high-profile Riyadh Season event, ‘The Last Crescendo.’
At 33 years old, Parker has bulked up significantly, weighing between 250-260 pounds without losing speed or mobility.
Nutritionist George Lockhart has played a key role in Parker’s transformation, helping him maintain peak fitness and endurance. Lee is confident that Parker’s recent opponents have prepared him well for Dubois, who, while strong, lacks the unpredictability of Zhang or the knockout power of Wilder.
The fight strategy revolves around Parker using his experience and superior ring craft to outmaneuver Dubois.
Lee expects Dubois to start aggressively, but Parker has been trained to either neutralize or confront him head-on, depending on how the fight unfolds. Parker’s confidence is evident, and Lee believes his self-belief and preparation will be the key to victory.
As fight night approaches, distractions increase with media events and public appearances, but Lee ensures Parker stays focused.
His final advice to Parker is simple: “Be yourself.” With all the training and preparation complete, the Kiwi heavyweight is ready to prove he belongs among boxing’s elite once again.
