Joseph Parker has claimed that Anthony Joshua has been "rattled" by comments made in the build-up to the announcement of their heavyweight unification clash on March 31.
On Sunday, it was formally confirmed that WBA and IBF champion Joshua would face WBO title holder Parker in Cardiff after weeks of negotiations between Matchroom Sport and Duco Events.
Parker and his team have questioned Joshua's chin and remained patient in negotiations for the highly-anticipated clash, and the New Zealander feels that it has riled the Olympic gold medallist.
The 26-year-old told ESPN: "I think Joshua has been rattled [by it]. I would just like to say this. It is part of the sport. It is part of the game. I think we did [get under his skin]. It is not only myself to be honest.
"My team came up with the ideas and how to approach Joshua and his team. I guess it was my team that got under his skin but I fronted that. Now he is rattled and angry and that will bring out the best of him in the fight."
Both fighters head into the showdown with unbeaten records in the professional ranks.
Darren Plant
