Assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Below Than Bulky Parker
Winning-streak Parker (left) is on a six-fight victory run, and knockout artist Wardley remains unbeaten in twenty pro bouts.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Venue: London's O2 Arena, the capital Fight Night: Weekend, 25 October
Broadcast Details: Tune in for real-time updates and live radio via BBC Sounds and mobile application from half past eight UK time prior to moving to national radio from 22:00.
The New Zealand fighter registered nearly 20lb above compared to his opponent as the two heavyweights displayed assured poses - albeit in opposing styles - leading up to this weekend's headliner in London.
From New Zealand Parker places his interim WBO title and shot to fight for the global championship on the line against the unbeaten Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Unified top heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk has indicated his intention to retain his four belts facing the victor.
"This is it. It represents everything," remarked a determined but zoned-in Fabio Wardley, 30, at yesterday's scale ceremony.
Wardley - who holds the WBA interim strap - weighed in at seventeen stone five pounds, in line with his previous matches.
"This contest prior to the ultimate challenge. All preparation is finished. Training is ticked off. All the hard work is done. Now for some relaxation now. Major event tomorrow," he added.
Spitalfields Market in London's east end hosted not just market goods on the scales as the both heavyweights confronted each other for the ultimate face-off ahead of fight night.
Joseph Parker gave a wink at the photographers and bobbed along to the tunes.
As he flexed his physique, he appeared imposing and strong as he registered at eighteen stone ten pounds, merely a handful of pounds lighter than his peak weight.
This represents a major change from the 16st 12lb version who lost his belt to Joshua in 2018.
"We are cautious, we are careful, but I'm going to fight fire with fire and I intend to connect with him," Joseph Parker stated.
I'm at a higher plane and will overpower him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, dressed in an Ipswich Town jersey, held a serious expression, acknowledged the fans, but looked concentrated.
He may be the lighter guy, Wardley has exceptional KO strength. He staged a dramatic comeback against Huni in June, behind on the official tallies before defeating his rival in the tenth round despite being outboxed for much of the bout.
"Parker, his corner and the sport's followers will learn I am meant to be at the top of this division," Fabio Wardley said.
"All challengers has been the one experts claim will overcome me. This is the one. He is too quick, swift, vastly experienced. But I remain unbeaten yet, and no challenge will alter in the ring."
