Assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Less Below Than Bulky Joseph Parker
In-form Parker (on the left) has a six-fight unbeaten stretch, while KO artist Fabio Wardley is undefeated in 20 professional fights.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Venue: London's O2 Arena, London Date: Weekend, October 25
Coverage: Tune in for real-time updates and listen via the BBC Sport website and mobile application starting at half past eight UK time before switching to BBC 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
Parker weighed nearly twenty pounds heavier than Fabio Wardley as each heavyweights presented self-assured figures - even if in different styles - leading up to the Saturday main event in London.
From New Zealand Joseph Parker will put his interim WBO title and shot to challenge for the undisputed crown on the line facing the unbeaten Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Reigning division king the champion has signalled his aim to protect his four belts versus the victor.
"This is it. It signifies the ultimate," stated a determined but concentrated Fabio Wardley, thirty, at the Friday pre-fight ritual.
Wardley - possessing the WBA interim strap - registered at seventeen stone five pounds, in line with his previous matches.
"This fight leading up to the big one. Every effort is completed. Camp is wrapped up. The intense training is accomplished. Time for some relaxation now. Major event tomorrow," he continued.
Spitalfields Market in London's east end saw not just typical items on the weighing platform as the pair of boxers faced off for the ultimate face-off ahead of the main event.
Joseph Parker winked at the camera and swayed along to the music.
As he flexed his muscles, he seemed powerful and forceful as he weighed in at 18st 10lb, merely a handful of pounds below than his heaviest ever.
This marks a significant difference from the sixteen stone twelve pound version who was defeated his belt to AJ in 2018.
"We're weary, we are careful, but I will to fight fire with fire and I'm going to get him," Parker said.
I'm at a superior tier and will smash him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, wearing an Ipswich Town jersey, maintained a straight face, greeted the crowd, but seemed focused.
Despite being the smaller man, Wardley has outstanding KO strength. He staged a dramatic turnaround against his opponent in the summer, down on the judges' cards prior to finishing his rival in the tenth round despite being outmaneuvered for most of the contest.
"Parker, his corner and supporters are about to discover I belong to be at the summit of this division," Fabio Wardley affirmed.
"Each rival has been the one critics claim will defeat me. This is that fight. He is superior speed, rapid, highly seasoned. However My record is perfect so far, and nothing will change in the ring."
