Self-assured Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Below Compared to Substantial Parker
In-form Joseph Parker (on the left) boasts a six-match unbeaten stretch, and knockout specialist Wardley remains unbeaten in twenty pro bouts.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Venue: O2 Arena, London Event Date: This Saturday, 25 October
Live Updates: Follow round-by-round coverage and live radio via BBC Sounds plus digital platforms from half past eight UK time prior to moving to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
The New Zealand fighter weighed nearly 20 pounds heavier against Fabio Wardley as each big men displayed confident appearances - although in opposing ways - ahead of this weekend's main event in London.
New Zealand's Joseph Parker is risking his WBO 'interim' belt and shot to challenge for the global championship at stake versus the undefeated Fabio Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Unified top heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk has made clear his plan to retain his world titles versus the winner.
"This is it. This means the ultimate," said a determined but focused Wardley, aged 30, at Friday's scale ceremony.
Wardley - the holder of the WBA 'interim' belt - came in at 17st 5lb, in line with his previous matches.
"This contest before the big one. All preparation is finished. Camp is ticked off. The grueling sessions is put in. Time for some downtime now. Major event ahead," he continued.
The East London market in the capital's east hosted not just market goods on the measure as the pair of boxers confronted each other for the ultimate face-off ahead of fight night.
Joseph Parker flashed a wink at the photographers and swayed along to the beat.
As he flexed his physique, he looked imposing and forceful as he weighed in at eighteen stone ten pounds, only a handful of pounds less than his heaviest ever.
It is a far cry from the sixteen stone twelve pound version who was defeated his belt to AJ in the year 2018.
"We are alert, we're cautious, but I'm going to fight fire with fire and I'm going to get him," Joseph Parker said.
I have reached a different level and will smash him - Parker
Wardley, dressed in an football shirt, kept a serious expression, greeted the crowd, but appeared zoned in.
Despite being the smaller man, Wardley has superb KO strength. He staged a dramatic turnaround versus Huni in the summer, behind on the scorecards before stopping his foe in the tenth round despite being outmaneuvered for most of the contest.
"Joseph Parker, his camp and the sport's followers will learn I belong to be at the summit of this heavyweight ranks," Fabio Wardley stated.
"Each rival has been the fighter critics claim will beat me. This is that fight. He's superior speed, rapid, highly seasoned. However I remain unbeaten to date, and nothing will change tomorrow night."
