Parker was clearly moved, hugging all of those responsible, a final act to an engaging question and answer session with a group who now feel they are all part of "Team Parker".
Some of the highlights were Parker talking about his musical interests: "I play guitar, piano, triangle."
And the attitudes of his mum, Sala, and dad, Dempsey, as a then young man from South Auckland gradually discovered that boxing was the sport for him: "You either train hard or get into ballet. So I trained hard," Parker said of Sala's ultimatum.
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Parker said Dempsey told him at one point: "Son, I think boxing is a very dangerous sport. I'm a bit worried about you getting punched in the head." To laughter, Parker said his reply was: "So why did you get me into boxing?"
Of trash talk in the often nasty world of professional boxing, Parker said of his team's attitude: "We like do our talking with my fists!"
Later, Parker said his favourite boxers were David Tua, a fellow Samoan New Zealander, American Roy Jones Jr, and Brit Lennox Lewis; the former for his natural ties to Parker, Jones Jr for his speed and movement, and Lewis for his record and sensible nature.
"He was a good champion – he lost a couple but he beat them all in the re-matches," Parker said of Lewis, adding that unlike many other former champions, Lewis was always good with his money.
Asked what he would be thinking when he walked to the ring to face Joshua, Parker replied with a smile and mimicked a wide-eyed stare, but added: "I've worked so hard in camp that this is my reward. It's time to dance."
The emotional tribute followed, the guests leaving happy they met an eloquent and humble champion about to go behind enemy lines with their support.
