Confident Fabio Wardley Weighs Twenty Pounds Less Compared to Heavier Parker
In-form Joseph Parker (on the left) has a six-bout unbeaten stretch, while knockout specialist Wardley is undefeated in twenty career contests.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Venue: O2 Arena, the capital Fight Night: Weekend, 25 October
Coverage: Catch real-time updates and listen through the BBC Sport website and mobile application starting at 20:30 BST then transitioning to BBC Radio 5 Live from 22:00.
Parker registered almost 20 pounds heavier against his opponent as each top fighters presented self-assured poses - even if in different manners - ahead of the Saturday feature bout in the UK.
Kiwi Parker is risking his WBO interim championship and opportunity to compete for the world title at stake facing the perfect Fabio Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Reigning top heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk has indicated his aim to retain his world titles facing the winner.
"It all comes down to this. This means the ultimate," stated a focused but concentrated Fabio Wardley, thirty, at the Friday scale ceremony.
Wardley - possessing the WBA 'interim' belt - registered at 17st 5lb, consistent with his recent bouts.
"This fight before the one. All preparation is completed. Preparation is ticked off. All the hard work is accomplished. Let's get some downtime now. Big night tomorrow," he continued.
The East London market in the capital's east witnessed more than fresh produce on the weighing platform as the both boxers confronted each other for the final time ahead of fight night.
Joseph Parker winked at the photographers and moved along to the tunes.
Showing off his physique, he appeared imposing and powerful as he registered at 119 kg, just 5lb lighter than his peak weight.
This marks a significant difference from the 107 kg fighter who was defeated his world title to AJ in 2018.
"We are cautious, we're cautious, but I'm going to fight fire with fire and I intend to connect with him," Joseph Parker stated.
I have reached a different level and will dominate him - Parker
Fabio Wardley, sporting an Ipswich Town jersey, held a straight face, greeted the fans, but appeared zoned in.
He may be the less heavy fighter, Fabio Wardley has outstanding knockout power. He produced a dramatic turnaround versus his opponent in last June, down on the scorecards prior to stopping his rival in the tenth round although being outmaneuvered for most of the bout.
"Joseph Parker, his corner and supporters will learn I am meant to be at the top of this weight class," Wardley said.
"Every opponent has been the one pundits say will beat me. This is that fight. He's exceptional pace, too fast, vastly experienced. However I remain unbeaten to date, and no challenge will change in the ring."
