Anthony Joshua on Saturday night unified the WBA, IBF and WBO world heavyweight titles with unanimous points win over Joseph Parker at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.
The 28-year-old Briton used his left hand to telling effect throughout an intriguing affair, in which New Zealand’s Parker displayed swift hands, movement and impressive durability.
It was the first time the 2012 Olympic champion was taken to 12 rounds in his professional career after 20 previous knockouts.
Parker tagged his rival to howls of concern in the 11th and he deserves immense respect for becoming the first man to take Joshua to the scorecards, which read 118-110 118-110 119-109.
The victory leaves only Deontay Wilder’s WBC title for Joshua to conquer.
“Wilder. Let’s go baby, let’s go,” shouted Joshua from inside the ring to raucous cheers from the 78,000 crowd packing Cardiff’s Principality Stadium, also name-checking Tyson Fury as another possible opponent.
“Do I want to become undisputed heavyweight champion of the world? IBO, WBO, IBF, WBA…I’m not into the hype, I’m about business. So let’s get the business done.
“Let’s see what the future holds, I’m down for whatever, whenever,” added the Briton, making clear he wanted Wilder to face him in Britain rather than Las Vegas.
The American was not among those present, in spite of being invited by organisers, the undefeated champion opting to watch from afar instead.
