Self-assured Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Less Than Substantial Parker
In-form Joseph Parker (on the left) boasts a six-fight unbeaten stretch, and stoppage artist Fabio Wardley has a perfect record in twenty professional fights.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Fight Location: London's O2 Arena, the capital Date: This Saturday, October 25
Coverage: Follow real-time updates and live radio through BBC Sounds plus digital platforms from half past eight UK time prior to moving to BBC Radio 5 Live from 22:00.
Joseph Parker stepped onto the scales nearly 20 pounds heavier compared to the British boxer as the two big men cut assured appearances - albeit in contrasting styles - ahead of the Saturday headliner in London.
New Zealand's Parker places his WBO interim championship and shot to compete for the undisputed crown up for grabs against the undefeated Fabio Wardley at the London venue.
Unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has signalled his aim to retain his championship titles facing the victor.
"This is it. It represents all," remarked a serious but focused Wardley, thirty, at Friday's weigh-in.
The Ipswich fighter - possessing the interim WBA title - came in at 17st 5lb, in line with his recent bouts.
"This is the one leading up to the ultimate challenge. Every effort is completed. Camp is completed. The intense training is done. Now for some downtime now. Big night tomorrow," he stated further.
The East London market in the capital's east witnessed beyond typical items on the measure as the pair of heavyweights faced off for the last occasion prior to the main event.
Parker winked at the camera and moved along to the beat.
Flexing his muscles, he looked powerful and powerful as he registered at 18st 10lb, merely 5lb below than his heaviest ever.
It is a far cry from the 16st 12lb iteration who lost his world title to Anthony Joshua in 2018.
"We are alert, we are careful, but I plan to respond with equal force and I'm going to get him," Parker declared.
I operate on a superior tier and will dominate him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, wearing an Ipswich top, maintained a straight face, acknowledged the audience, but appeared concentrated.
Despite being the less heavy fighter, Fabio Wardley has superb knockout power. He staged a dramatic recovery versus Huni in June, trailing on the official tallies then finishing his rival in the final round although being outmaneuvered for most of the bout.
"His opponent, his team and supporters will find out I am meant to be at the summit of this weight class," Fabio Wardley affirmed.
"Every opponent has been the boxer pundits claim will overcome me. This is the one. His attributes include too quick, too fast, too experienced. However I remain unbeaten so far, and no one will shift on fight night."
