The Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker heavyweight unification bout is quickly approaching at the moment and most seem to be writing Parker off in the bout.

This despite the fact he holds the WBO heavyweight title and is an undefeated fighter himself like Joshua.

If boxing history has taught us anything though, taking your opponent lightly or thinking you’ve cracked it too early almost always has catastrophic consequences.

Anthony Joshua you’d suspect won’t do this but if he does, there is no denying that Parker at least has some sort of chance if he can take him into deep waters and boxes to the best of his ability.

One prominent figure in boxing who believes Parker has a chance is retired pound for pound star Andre Ward.

Speaking to Fight Hype, Ward said:

“Everybody’s got a shot – especially in the heavyweight division.”

He added;

“I have not seen a lot of Parker but I like Parker. He’s athletic, he’s big, he seems strong. I think the biggest thing for him is the moment not being too big for him. If the moment is not too big then he’s got a shot. He’s got a shot.”

If belief is the main thing Parker has to focus on then he has plenty of time to get his mind right, although he also is against the clock to get fit physically after admitting that he came into fight camp soft and out of shape.

Joshua is already in supreme condition, so will be in peak shape come March 31st one suspects.

For the full interview on Fight Hype YouTube (hat tip) with Andre Ward check it out here: