He may be on the other side of the world, but Joseph Parker won't lack support when he faces Anthony Joshua in Cardiff tomorrow morning.
Between 200-300 people gathered at the Fale o Samoa yesterday evening to offer prayers, songs, and blessings to their hometown boxing hero.
Minister for Pacific Peoples Aupito William Sio said it was important for Samoan New Zealanders to hold the service.
"He's a son of ours, but also a son of Aotearoa and of the Pacific. So we want him to feel that we're very proud that he's reached the crowning point of his career.
"Whatever happens, we're going to be proud of him anyway."
David Tua, a fellow Samoan-Kiwi boxer, told 1 NEWS there's never been a better chance for a New Zealand boxer to unify the world titles.
"Without a doubt. He's at a prime time of his career, it's a beautiful opportunity, why not?
"I think he's ready, he's done his work. He's prepared himself well and I have no doubt he's looking for a good fight,"
He admits Joshua is a massive obstacle to overcome.
"He's a big task, he's a big challenge. But he's beatable as well."
Many of the people who attended the service told 1 NEWS they're facing a scheduling headache; the fight is expected to start sometime after 8:30am, so some church services will be delayed to accommodate the bout.
Minister Sio admitted he's already booked the fight.
"We'll take the opportunity to attend church after!"
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