Self-assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Below Than Bulky Parker
On-a-roll Parker (left) has a six-fight unbeaten stretch, and stoppage artist Fabio Wardley is undefeated in 20 professional fights.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Location: The O2, the capital Fight Night: Saturday, the 25th of October
Broadcast Details: Tune in for real-time updates and listen on the BBC Sport website and app starting at half past eight UK time prior to moving to national radio from 22:00.
Joseph Parker registered approximately 20lb more than Fabio Wardley as both top fighters displayed self-assured figures - although in contrasting styles - for the Saturday feature bout in London.
New Zealand's Joseph Parker is risking his interim WBO title and opportunity to fight for the global championship at stake against the unbeaten Wardley at the London venue.
Reigning division king Usyk has signalled his intention to defend his championship titles versus the winner.
"This is the moment. It represents all," stated a focused but concentrated Fabio Wardley, 30, at yesterday's scale ceremony.
The Ipswich fighter - possessing the WBA interim strap - weighed in at 110 kg, consistent with his latest fights.
"This contest leading up to the one. Every effort is finished. Training is wrapped up. The intense training is put in. Let's get some rest now. Major event tomorrow," he continued.
The East London market in the capital's east hosted more than fresh produce on the weighing platform as the pair of boxers faced off for the final time ahead of the bout.
Parker winked at the photographers and moved along to the beat.
As he flexed his physique, he appeared imposing and strong as he tipped the scales at 18st 10lb, only 5lb below than his career-heaviest.
It is a significant difference from the 16st 12lb fighter who lost his world title to Joshua in 2018.
"We are cautious, we're cautious, but I'm going to fight fire with fire and I'm going to get him," Joseph Parker said.
I'm at a different level and will dominate him - Parker
Fabio Wardley, sporting an Ipswich Town jersey, maintained a straight face, nodded to the audience, but appeared zoned in.
He may be the smaller man, Fabio Wardley has superb stopping ability. He staged a dramatic comeback versus his opponent in the summer, down on the official tallies then stopping his opponent in the tenth round although being outmaneuvered for the majority of the bout.
"His opponent, his camp and boxing fans are about to discover I am meant to be at the peak of this division," Fabio Wardley stated.
"Every opponent has been the boxer pundits predict will overcome me. Here we are again. He's superior speed, too fast, highly seasoned. But My record is perfect yet, and nothing will change in the ring."
