MANUKAU CITY — Joseph Parker received his first taste of adversity in a unanimous decision (116-112 twice, 115-113) win over Carlos Takam this afternoon at the Vodafone Events Centre.
Parker controlled the first three rounds by keeping Takam tentative with his hard punching and high activity. Starting in the fourth, Takam turned the tide by coming forward and taking advantage of Parker’s infighting deficiencies. Parker, who was visibly fatigued, went into full retreat in the fifth and allowed Takam to carry most of the middle rounds.
In the championship rounds, the tide changed again with Parker digging deep to outpunch the more economical Takam.
The bout was an IBF eliminator, meaning Parker could conceivably face title-holder Anthony Joshua very soon. But from this performance, it’s obvious Parker needs much more seasoning before taking on that challenge.
Watch the full fight below.
Beats, Boxing and Mayhem 