Assured Wardley Weighs 20lb Below Compared to Bulky Parker
In-form Joseph Parker (on the left) is on a six-bout victory run, and stoppage artist Wardley remains unbeaten in twenty pro bouts.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Venue: O2 Arena, London Fight Night: Saturday, 25 October
Coverage: Follow real-time updates and listen on BBC 5 Live Sports Extra and app from 20:30 BST before switching to national radio from 10:00 PM.
Parker weighed almost twenty pounds above compared to his opponent as both big men cut assured appearances - although in opposing manners - for this weekend's headliner in London.
From New Zealand Joseph Parker places his WBO 'interim' belt and shot to compete for the global championship at stake against the unbeaten Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Reigning division king Usyk has signalled his plan to defend his championship titles against the successful fighter.
"This is the moment. This means everything," remarked a focused but concentrated Fabio Wardley, thirty, at Friday's weigh-in.
Wardley - the holder of the WBA interim strap - registered at 17st 5lb, consistent with his recent bouts.
"This is the one prior to the one. All the work is completed. Camp is completed. The intense training is done. Time for some downtime now. Major event tomorrow," he added.
Spitalfields Market in east London witnessed not just typical items on the weighing platform as the both heavyweights confronted each other for the last occasion before fight night.
Joseph Parker gave a wink at the lenses and swayed along to the music.
Flexing his strength, he looked hefty and strong as he tipped the scales at eighteen stone ten pounds, merely 5lb lighter than his career-heaviest.
It is a far cry from the 16st 12lb version who lost his belt to AJ in 2018.
"We are cautious, we're cautious, but I plan to match him blow for blow and I will reach him," Joseph Parker said.
I'm at a different level and will overpower him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, dressed in an football shirt, held a focused look, greeted the audience, but looked zoned in.
Although he is the smaller man, Fabio Wardley has outstanding KO strength. He produced a remarkable turnaround facing Justis Huni in June, behind on the official tallies then stopping his opponent in the tenth round even though being outmaneuvered for the majority of the bout.
"Parker, his team and supporters will learn I belong to be at the summit of this division," Fabio Wardley stated.
"Every opponent has been the one pundits predict will defeat me. This is that fight. He is too quick, rapid, vastly experienced. However My record is perfect so far, and no challenge will alter tomorrow night."
