Anthony Joshua is hoping that Joseph Parker falls into his traps on Saturday night, admitting he is keeping a challenger’s mindset ahead of the showdown, Skysports reports.
The colossal clash between Joshua, the WBA ‘Super’ and IBF champ, and WBO titlist Parker sees both heavyweights put their belts and unbeaten records on the line in Cardiff.
Joshua was relaxed and focused as he impressed a feverish crowd on Wednesday night, fine-tuning his boxing skills for the final time at the public workout.
“This is another unbelievable reception, it’s bigger than last time. Boxing is growing, it’s a golden era right now and it’s great to be a part of it.
“I like the interaction part with fans, there are people I want to meet, and a minute of your time means the world to some people and means the world to me.”
On the back of Parker previously saying that he is ready for a war, Joshua then candidly replied, “Yeah, it’s good news but it’s silly –it’s boxing.
“I’m hearing that all you need is a good chin and a right hand. We’ve been working on technique, finesse and counter punching.
“I hope Parker falls into my booby traps because I will set them up with some power traps as well. There’ll be a bit of a war.
“You’ll see blood, sweat and hopefully cheers from my corner.”
Joshua admitted that he is still insistent on learning and improving with every fight, despite the fact he is now the hunted man in the division.
“Physically, I’ve always tried to prepare myself the best way, but now I believe more and believe in my ability – I’m focused.
“It’s a boxing match and people respect clinical boxing and that should see me through to victory.
“We are working round by round, camp by camp and every camp I aim to improve. We’ll see the perks I’ve been working on come Saturday.
“You need to keep the challenger’s mindset, I try not to be seen with the belt too much, I let other people have the enjoyment, I have to keep that challenger’s mindset.
“I’m looking forward to this challenge. Just because I’m the hunted, it’s no time to put my feet up and relax. I’m out there defending my throne.”
Meanwhile, Parker says he is ready to “go to war” with Joshua in Saturday’s unification bout in Cardiff, BBC Sport reports.
Parker, 26, speaking at Wednesday’s public workout at St David’s Hall, said his team have got “under the skin” of WBA, IBF and IBO title holder Joshua.
“He looks a little angry and tense,” said Parker, as 400 fans watched on.
“I’m young, hungry, fit and strong. I’ve got my speed back and I’ll show you on Saturday.”
British-born Nigerian Joshua, 28, stated he would maintain a “challenger’s mindset” as he looks to defend his perfect 20 knockouts from 20 fights.
He looked leaner — as expected after weighing a career-high 18st 2lbs last time out — and Parker, who is unbeaten in 24 fights, looked light on his feet and at ease in what will be the fighters’ last public outing until Friday’s weigh-in.
The New Zealand fighter was warmly received initially but drew boos when he pointed to the historic success his country’s rugby team have had in Wales, stating, “I’m looking forward to keeping that record clean.”
And moments before Joshua appeared for his own workout, Parker delivered a message, “I’ll see you Saturday, let’s go to war”.
