Self-assured Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Less Than Substantial Parker
Winning-streak Joseph Parker (left) has a six-fight victory run, while knockout expert Fabio Wardley remains unbeaten in 20 professional fights.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Fight Location: O2 Arena, London Fight Night: This Saturday, October 25
Coverage: Tune in for real-time updates and listen through BBC Sounds and app from 20:30 BST prior to moving to national radio from 10 PM BST.
Joseph Parker stepped onto the scales nearly twenty pounds more compared to the British boxer as each big men displayed assured figures - albeit in different ways - for the Saturday main event in the UK.
Kiwi Parker will put his WBO 'interim' belt and shot to challenge for the undisputed crown at stake facing the perfect Fabio Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Unified top heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk has made clear his plan to retain his four belts versus the successful fighter.
"This is it. It represents all," said a focused but focused Fabio Wardley, thirty, at yesterday's pre-fight ritual.
Wardley - the holder of the WBA interim strap - registered at seventeen stone five pounds, matching his latest fights.
"This fight prior to the big one. Every effort is done. Preparation is ticked off. The intense training is done. Let's get some relaxation now. Huge occasion tomorrow," he stated further.
Spitalfields Market in London's east end witnessed more than typical items on the scales as the two boxers confronted each other for the final time prior to the bout.
Joseph Parker gave a wink at the lenses and swayed along to the music.
Flexing his physique, he looked imposing and strong as he weighed in at eighteen stone ten pounds, merely 5lb lighter than his heaviest ever.
This represents a far cry from the 107 kg version who lost his world title to Joshua in the year 2018.
"We are alert, we're cautious, but I'm going to respond with equal force and I'm going to get him," Parker stated.
I operate on a higher plane and will overpower him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, dressed in an Ipswich Town jersey, held a straight face, greeted the fans, but looked concentrated.
Although he is the less heavy fighter, Wardley has superb knockout power. He produced a thrilling comeback versus his opponent in June, down on the scorecards before defeating his rival in the final round although being outmaneuvered for much of the contest.
"Parker, his team and boxing fans are about to discover I am meant to be at the summit of this weight class," Wardley affirmed.
"All challengers has been the boxer experts predict will beat me. This is the one. He is too quick, swift, too experienced. But I remain unbeaten so far, and no one will shift tomorrow night."
