Zach Parker Believes he has the Qualities to Take Out Demetrius Andrade
When Zach Parker (22-0, 16 KOs) squares off against Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (31-0, 19 KOs) on May 21 at the Pride Park Stadium in Darby, England, it’s more than a fight for the WBO Interim super middleweight title. The contest represents a step up to the big leagues of world-class, world-level boxing.
During an interview with BT Sport, the 27-year-old from Derbyshire, England conceded that it’s put up or shut up time, believing he will seize the moment in front of what will be an electric environment on fight night.
READY FOR THE MOMENT
The climb up the ladder has been a steady one for the 27-year-old. After rolling through the British circuit, Parker became the WBO #1 ranked super middleweight with an eleventh round stoppage win over Rohan Murdoc to capture the vacant WBO International 168-pound title in March 2020.
Now, he’s facing an Andrade, the current WBO champion at 160 pounds and a two-division world champion. “Boo Boo” is hoping to use this fight as a launching pad for a fight with undisputed super-middleweight champ Canelo Alvarez. A classy southpaw, Andrade is one of the more skilled boxers and the best fighter the Brit has faced. However, Parker thinks the 34-year-old Andrade is vulnerable.
WILL AGE PLAY A FACTOR?
“He’s been around the block and he’s getting on a bit now. I think it’s just right for me now. He’s 34, I’m 27. I’m coming into my prime.”
It’s the youth plus his size advantage that Parker sees playing a big role late in the fight. Parker thinks Andrade fights in spurts and is moving up a division. Parker doesn’t see Andrade having the stamina to hold up.
“He fights at his pace, and that’s what I’ll try to exploit when I fight him. Put it on him, and don’t let him breathe. Don’t let him breathe when he wants to go for a little dance now. It’s going to be a good fight for the Darby fans.
[…] Styles makes fights. I think my style is just awkward for anyone to fight; switch-hitter and can connect with body hands. Obviously, he’s coming up in weight as well […] I’m a big super middle. He’s even fought at light middle. I think that’s going to come into a factor in the later rounds.”
The Brit is confident of victory. Ready to put his talents on display, he gave his analysis on what will happen on May 21.
“I just think I’m going to be too much for him. I’ll be ready for twelve rounds. But if the stoppage comes, I’ll take it with both hands.”
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By: Michael Wilson Jr.
