Solomon Haumono will enter into the latest chapter of a storied trans-Tasman rivalry knowing he needs to land only two good punches to become the heavyweight champion of the world.
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Haumono will take on undefeated New Zealand boxing star Joseph Parker in Christchurch in July, with the victor poised to set up multimillion-dollar world title fights against Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua or Deontay Wilder.
The bout is being touted as the biggest in Australia-New Zealand boxing history and continues a rivalry between the nations forged in cricket, rugby union, rugby league and netball. Parker has never been defeated and only three of his 19 opponents have gone the distance. Haumono, the 12th ranked WBA heavyweight, also has plenty of power, notching 21 knockouts in 24 bouts.
While the Kiwi shapes as his most formidable opponent, Haumono, a former Sea Eagles, Bulldogs, Tigers and Dragons forward, believes he is on the cusp of history in the anticipated match-up.
"I know now I'm only one punch away from a world title fight," Haumono said.
"This is like battling the All Blacks in union: the Wallabies may be the underdogs but, like them, I'll ensure Parker will know I'm in the ring when he feels my first punch.
"He's standing in my way of me being world champion, it's all or nothing.
"I love being the underdog and this fight could change my life. I've had my ups and downs, been at the top of rugby league, now I'm in reach of my ultimate dream to be world champion."
Haumono has accepted fights with David Haye, Hughie Fury and Parker in the past 12 months, only to be avoided. The Christchurch clash, promoted by Duco Events, gives the 40-year-old the platform to display his wares in front of a global audience.
The Australian tuned up for the fight with a knockout win over Argentinian veteran Manuel Alberto Pucheta in Brisbane last month, but Parker will be a significant step up in class. The Kiwi won a unanimous decision against Carlos Takam to become the mandatory challenger for the world title held by England's Joshua.
Parker will be the overwhelming favourite for his next assignment, with many pundits viewing the Australian as nothing more than a tune up before turning his attention to bigger names.
Haumono, however, has other ideas.
"I don't intend to leave this with judges; I'll be going for a knockout," Haumono said.
Parker is one of the biggest names in New Zealand sport and there was unprecedented interest when Haumono travelled to Auckland during the week to promote the event.
"Parker had all the support in New Zealand on the recent media tour we did," Haumono said.
"I need all the support in Australia. I'm taking on the best New Zealand fighter, one of the best in the world.
"It's like facing the All Blacks, Kiwis or Silver Ferns; he's at the top and I'm one punch away from being there.
"I've been the underdog before and been successful. A win could change my life."
