Unpacking the Daily Routines: A Closer Look at Inside Parkers Camp with a Focus on Socks, Breakfast Timing, and Coach Communication Strategies

Image source: Getty Images

Joseph Parker began his professional journey under Andy Lee in 2021, culminating in winning his first world title in 2016. He’s now set to challenge IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois on Saturday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The New Zealander aims for a two-time heavyweight championship and is currently riding a five-fight win streak. Andy Lee, Parker’s head coach who was mentored by boxing legend Emanuel Steward, provided insights into the changes that have inspired his recent form to 5 Live Boxing with Steve Bunce.

“Joe used to always wear black socks,” Lee revealed. “Manny (Emanuel Steward) would advise wearing white socks and boots, as it makes fighters feel faster.” Parker switched his sock color after a win over Junior Fa in 2021 and currently wears a combination of white socks and black boots.

Dubois, who is the underdog against the IBF champion Daniel Dubois (37), has been knocking opponents out in his last three fights. After losing to Oleksandr Usyk in 2023, he’s now one win away from potentially facing him again in a undisputed bout.

Lee highlighted that while Dubois is known for his powerful punch, his jab is the strongest part of his game. “You have to make it his biggest weakness,” Lee said. The coach believes Parker should focus on countering the jab by slipping inside or stepping outside during their fight.

Parker and Dubois are both recovering from tough losses earlier in their careers. Parker won against Deontay Wilder and Zhang, while Dubois stopped Anthony Joshua and Filip Hrgovic in 2024. For Parker, this upcoming match will be his fourth consecutive bout in Riyadh. The fight is scheduled close to midnight local time on Saturday.

Parker’s nutritionist, George Lockhart, explained that the timing of events like breakfast at 14:00 (local) helps set up their circadian rhythm for optimal performance during a high-stakes match.

Lee mentioned that he and his team have worked diligently to improve Parker’s game by addressing bad habits in both physicality and mental focus. Lee added, “Before working with me, Joe would take many breaks during fightsboth physically and mentallyand fight round-by-round without being fully engaged.”

Despite Dubois being a strong favorite for the match, Lee expressed that it works to their advantage: “It suits us down to the ground,” he said.