Former WBO heavyweight champion Joseph Parker believes the second time is the charm, when he collides with Derek Chisora for the second time, in Manchester.

Earlier this year, Parker was knocked down in the first round and then had to rally down the stretch to win a close twelve round split decision over Chisora.

In the aftermath, there was heavy debate over which of them was the rightful winner.

Parker has been training hard with his new trainer, former world champion Andy Lee. Their first bout together was the May encounter with Chisora.

The New Zealand star admits that it won't be easy - as he expects the very aggressive Chisora to come swinging with both hands from the very start,

“Derek is one tough guy, he comes forward and puts on the pressure, like he said bite the gumshield and throw the kitchen sink, that’s exactly what he did and what he’s going to do for the next fight. I feel like this fight is going to different, I’ve had a lot more time to work on things that Andy has suggested I work on and now that I’m here with him in camp my confidence is growing every day seeing the improvements," Parker said.

“I feel like this is the place to be you know, I have this fight with Derek in front of me and there are a lot more fights out there that can be made. We have to make these sacrifices as fighters, I know a lot of fighters that make sacrifices, I’m away from my wife and family, my parents, I feel like it’s my time to make it count.

“That’s my goal, to become two-time world champion, I’m well positioned at the moment with the rankings but with COVID its hard lock in fights so thanks to everyone for getting this made and Chisora for accepting it again. It’s good to out three times this year and you’ve just got to take the opportunities when they come. I feel like I’ll finish this fight within the distance, I’ve got a good feeling.”