Joshua vs Parker: Eddie Hearn admits Anthony Joshua is under pressure
Wednesday 28 March 2018 22:08, UK
Anthony Joshua feels the weight of expectation as his fight against “relaxed” Joseph Parker draws closer, says his promoter Eddie Hearn.
Joshua and Parker share the public work-outs on Wednesday before unifying the IBF, WBA and WBO heavyweight gold on Saturday in Cardiff, live on Sky Sports Box Office.
"Anthony has been edgy in the preparation," Hearn told Sky Sports News. "[Promoter David] Higgins, Parker and [trainer Kevin] Barry have tried to get under his skin. I wouldn't say it's worked.
The pressure is on Anthony, and masses of it.
"The pressure is on him and he knows he has to perform. It's all about performance. He wants to show the world, and show his coach, how he's improved since the Wladimir Klitschko fight.
"He is learning and improving."
WBO champion Parker's demeanour has impressed Hearn after they met at Tuesday's press conference.
"He's looked the part in the entire build-up. He's had his doors open to everyone," Hearn said.
"He's really relaxed, that's the main thing I've noticed about Joseph Parker - not necessarily about his team.
"He has a belief that he can win the fight but also thinks that he isn't expected to win the fight. So all the pressure is on Anthony.
"The pressure is on Anthony, and masses of it. Parker feels like he can relax, do his thing, then shock the world on Saturday."
