Confident Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Less Compared to Bulky Parker
In-form Parker (on the left) has a six-bout winning streak, while stoppage artist Fabio Wardley is undefeated in twenty career contests.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Venue: London's O2 Arena, the capital Fight Night: Saturday, 25 October
Live Updates: Tune in for live text commentary and listen via the BBC Sport website and app from half past eight UK time then transitioning to national radio from 22:00.
Joseph Parker registered approximately 20lb heavier than his opponent as the two top fighters cut self-assured appearances - although in contrasting ways - ahead of this weekend's feature bout in the capital.
Kiwi Joseph Parker will put his WBO 'interim' belt and chance to compete for the world title at stake against the undefeated Fabio Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Undisputed division king the champion has indicated his intention to protect his world titles versus the winner.
"This is the moment. It signifies everything," stated a focused but focused Wardley, thirty, at the Friday scale ceremony.
The British contender - possessing the interim WBA title - registered at seventeen stone five pounds, matching his latest fights.
"This fight prior to the big one. All preparation is completed. Training is completed. The grueling sessions is put in. Time for some rest now. Major event tomorrow," he stated further.
Spitalfields Market in east London hosted more than market goods on the scales as the two heavyweights faced off for the final time before the bout.
Joseph Parker winked at the photographers and moved along to the music.
Showing off his strength, he seemed powerful and forceful as he registered at eighteen stone ten pounds, merely 5lb lighter than his career-heaviest.
It is a major change from the 16st 12lb fighter who surrendered his world title to Anthony Joshua in 2018.
"We are alert, we are wary, but I will to respond with equal force and I intend to connect with him," Joseph Parker declared.
I'm at a superior tier and will smash him - Parker
Fabio Wardley, sporting an Ipswich Town jersey, maintained a serious expression, greeted the fans, but looked zoned in.
He may be the lighter guy, Wardley has outstanding stopping ability. He produced a dramatic comeback versus Justis Huni in last June, behind on the judges' cards then finishing his foe in the final round even though being outmaneuvered for the majority of the contest.
"Parker, his team and the sport's followers will find out I am meant to be at the summit of this heavyweight ranks," Wardley said.
"All challengers has been the one critics predict will defeat me. This is the one. His attributes include exceptional pace, too fast, vastly experienced. Yet I remain unbeaten yet, and no challenge will change tomorrow night."
