Dillian Whyte claims promoter David Higgins is the only reason why Joseph Parker is big name in heavyweight boxing.
Parker and Whyte will meet at London's O2 Arena on July 29 (NZ time) - the Aucklander's first outing since losing his WBO belt to Briton Anthony Joshua in April.
The fight has title implications, with the winner likely to challenge for Deontay Wilder's WBC championship, and Joshua’s WBO, WBA and IBF belts.
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Both fighters went face to face in Sky Sports UK show Gloves Are Off, where the two rivals sit in front of each other and answer tough questions.
Traditionally not one to engage in pre-fight trash talk, Parker took the opportunity to fire a few verbal jabs at his opponent - but got plenty in return.
The 26-year-old said he was "sick of being quiet" and was determined to shelve his 'nice guy' image.
But Whyte began taunting Parker about the influence of his high-profile manager on his career.
"Are you obsessed with Higgins?" accused Parker.
"Of course," Whyte responded. "He is a bigger star than you and you're the fighter.
"Without Higgins, you're nothing. He gives you a voice.
"I'm surprised David Higgins isn’t sitting behind him in a chair, telling him what to say.
"I'm glad you're coming out of your shell and speaking out - it is a good sign. David Higgins is probably upstairs crying, saying, 'Why is Joseph speaking without me?'"
Parker, the former WBO belt-holder, said he was determined to become world champion once again.
"I'm still hungry and I'm motivated," he said. "I want to be champion again and that is why I'm here.
"I feel like I have got better speed and better movement, and whenever I'm in a fight, I'm always confident I'm going to win.
"The last time I was here, I didn't get the result I wanted, but now I have a new challenge in front of me and the result I want for this fight is the one I wanted for the last one.
"I want to put on a great show and knock someone out. I was too cautious and didn’t put Joshua under pressure, but from the fight, I gained experience, I learnt lots and when I come into this fight, I'll put on a display."
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