Self-assured Fabio Wardley Weighs Twenty Pounds Below Than Substantial Joseph Parker
On-a-roll Parker (left) boasts a six-fight victory run, and stoppage expert Wardley has a perfect record in twenty career contests.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Location: London's O2 Arena, London Event Date: Saturday, 25 October
Live Updates: Tune in for live text commentary and audio coverage via the BBC Sport website plus digital platforms starting at half past eight UK time before switching to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10 PM BST.
Parker stepped onto the scales almost twenty pounds more compared to the British boxer as both heavyweights cut self-assured figures - although in opposing styles - ahead of Saturday's feature bout in the capital.
New Zealand's Parker is risking his WBO interim championship and opportunity to compete for the undisputed crown on the line facing the undefeated Fabio Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Unified top heavyweight the champion has indicated his aim to defend his world titles versus the victor.
"It all comes down to this. It represents everything," stated a determined but concentrated Wardley, 30, at the Friday pre-fight ritual.
Wardley - possessing the interim WBA title - weighed in at seventeen stone five pounds, in line with his previous matches.
"This fight before the ultimate challenge. Every effort is completed. Camp is completed. The grueling sessions is accomplished. Let's get some relaxation now. Major event coming up," he continued.
Spitalfields Market in London's east end witnessed more than fresh produce on the scales as the pair of heavyweights faced off for the ultimate face-off prior to the main event.
Joseph Parker gave a wink at the camera and swayed along to the tunes.
Flexing his muscles, he looked hefty and forceful as he tipped the scales at 119 kg, just a handful of pounds below than his peak weight.
This marks a major change from the 16st 12lb version who was defeated his world title to Joshua in 2018.
"We are cautious, we are careful, but I will to match him blow for blow and I intend to connect with him," Joseph Parker said.
I have reached a higher plane and will overpower him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, dressed in an football shirt, held a straight face, nodded to the fans, but looked focused.
Despite being the smaller man, Fabio Wardley has superb stopping ability. He produced a thrilling recovery facing Justis Huni in last June, down on the judges' cards then finishing his opponent in the final round although being outclassed for the majority of the bout.
"Joseph Parker, his corner and boxing fans are about to discover I am meant to be at the summit of this weight class," Wardley affirmed.
"Every opponent has been the one experts claim will overcome me. This is the one. He is too quick, rapid, too experienced. Yet My record is perfect to date, and nothing will change in the ring."
