Confident Wardley Weighs 20lb Lighter Compared to Heavier Joseph Parker
On-a-roll Joseph Parker (left) is on a six-match unbeaten stretch, while knockout expert Wardley is undefeated in 20 pro bouts.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Fight Location: London's O2 Arena, London Fight Night: Saturday, 25 October
Live Updates: Catch round-by-round coverage and listen via BBC Sounds and app from 8:30 PM BST prior to moving to BBC 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
Joseph Parker weighed almost twenty pounds above against his opponent as each heavyweights presented assured poses - albeit in different manners - for Saturday's main event in the UK.
From New Zealand Parker will put his WBO 'interim' belt and chance to compete for the undisputed crown on the line against the undefeated Fabio Wardley at the London venue.
Reigning top heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk has made clear his plan to retain his world titles facing the victor.
"This is it. It signifies all," remarked a determined but focused Fabio Wardley, thirty, at Friday's scale ceremony.
The British contender - the holder of the WBA 'interim' belt - registered at 17st 5lb, in line with his latest fights.
"This fight leading up to the ultimate challenge. All the work is finished. Camp is wrapped up. All the hard work is put in. Time for some rest now. Big night coming up," he continued.
Spitalfields Market in east London witnessed more than typical items on the scales as the pair of heavyweights confronted each other for the final time before the main event.
Joseph Parker gave a wink at the lenses and moved along to the tunes.
Flexing his muscles, he seemed powerful and powerful as he registered at 119 kg, only a handful of pounds less than his heaviest ever.
It is a major change from the 16st 12lb fighter who surrendered his championship to Anthony Joshua in the year 2018.
"We're weary, we are wary, but I plan to fight fire with fire and I'm going to get him," Parker said.
I operate on a higher plane and will dominate him - Parker
Wardley, sporting an Ipswich Town jersey, held a serious expression, nodded to the fans, but appeared focused.
Although he is the less heavy fighter, Fabio Wardley has exceptional knockout power. He staged a thrilling turnaround facing his opponent in last June, behind on the scorecards then finishing his foe in the final round even though being outboxed for much of the fight.
"His opponent, his corner and boxing fans will find out I belong to be at the top of this heavyweight ranks," Fabio Wardley stated.
"Each rival has been the one pundits claim will overcome me. This is that fight. He's superior speed, too fast, vastly experienced. However My record is perfect to date, and nothing will alter in the ring."
