Boxing: Manny Pacquiao backing Joseph Parker

Joseph Parker is fully preparing himself for his chance at a world heavyweight title fight. Photo / Getty Images

Joseph Parker has received backing from the highest of boxing places - the legendary Manny Pacquiao.

The 37-year-old Pacquiao sent a good luck message to Parker, who fights Carlos Takam in a heavyweight title eliminator in south Auckland on Saturday night.

Pacquiao tweeted: Wishing @JoeBoxerParker the best of luck this Saturday in his heavyweight title elimination fight against @Carlos Takam.

While Parker sets about scoring a shot at a world title, Pacquiao is running a political career in the Philippines while still apparently deciding if he will fight at the Rio Olympics.