"By far this was Joseph's most impressive performance," Barry said. "Everyone watching tonight both here and at home can see how skilful and just how far he has come. That's why he's now ranked 10 in the world by the WBA."
Hamilton (Stuff) December 6 2014 - Devastating power.
Joseph Parker capped his most successful year as a professional with a stunning fourth round knockout of Brazilian Irineu Beato Costa Junior in Hamilton on Saturday night.
In 16 previous fights, Costa Junior had never been stopped - and clearly never copped this sort of power. With one brutal right hand that landed flush on the jaw, Parker ended the fight in emphatic fashion, just 31 seconds into round four.
Anyone who has watched Parker evolve would recognise this was his finest performance.
The fruits of his Las Vegas training under Kevin Barry are beginning to flourish.
Only now is Parker starting to believe he belongs in the division of giants.
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The stare he gave Costa Junior after he stuck him with big shots was revealing. With each fight - this his fifth victory of the year to improve his record to 12-0 - he grows in stature and confidence.
"By far this was Joseph's most impressive performance," Barry said. "Everyone watching tonight both here and at home can see how skilful and just how far he has come. That's why he's now ranked 10 in the world by the WBA."
Parker was aggressive from the opening bell to retain his WBO Oriental and WBA PABA titles.
Body shots, jabs, hooks, uppercuts - the South Aucklander showcased his full array of skills and crucially didn't drop his hands to leave himself open.
Leading off with the left, Parker threw out repeated three-punch combinations. His huge right hand in the fourth round was no fluke - it was well orchestrated and thought out.
The slow, lumbering Costa Junior presented an easy target, but not everyone could finish the job like this.
"This was the final exam Kevin was talking about and I'm glad I passed it," Parker said. "We've been working on the body throughout the whole year. Kevin said to set it up and it came. I'm grateful for this victory."
Plans for Parker to fight five times again next year can now progress as intended.
First, though, he will enjoy a well deserved holiday in Samoa with his parents.
On this evidence, next year could bring something special.
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