By Staff Writer
Former WBO World Heavyweight Champion, Lupesoliai Joseph Parker, has parted ways with trainer Kevin Barry according to a New Zealand Herald report early this morning, Friday 5 March 2021.
The NZ Herald confirmed the split in a statement from the boxer’s manager David Higgins.
The partnership ended on an amicable note with the pair paying tribute to the long ties they had, according to the media report.
“Without Kevin I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Parker said. “Together we made it to the very top.
“Kevin was with me every step of the way, guiding my progress inside and outside of the ring. So, it is with genuine sadness that I confirm our partnership has come to an end.
“But the time just feels right. It’s fitting that we closed this chapter of my career with a win in front of a great home crowd in Auckland, and with bigger things just on the horizon.
“I know Kevin will always be in my corner.”
The pair decided to part ways yesterday following Parker’s unanimous points win over Junior Fa at Auckland’s Spark Arena on Saturday.
Barry added: “I’m hugely proud to have played a part in New Zealand and Samoa crowning their first heavyweight world champion.
“It has been an amazing journey with Joseph and Team Parker. But all journeys must come to an end, and the time is right for myself and Joseph to go in our own directions.
“I have been in New Zealand for five months now, away from my family and my other fighters. I have three guys fighting for world titles this year and have responsibilities with them and a few new guys.
“It’s not possible for me to stay in New Zealand any longer. For Joe, he has a wife and three young girls in New Zealand, and he wishes to spend more time here.