Self-assured Fabio Wardley Weighs 20lb Lighter Than Bulky Joseph Parker
In-form Parker (left) is on a six-bout unbeaten stretch, and knockout artist Wardley remains unbeaten in 20 professional fights.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Fight Location: The O2, the capital Event Date: Saturday, the 25th of October
Live Updates: Tune in for real-time updates and live radio via BBC 5 Live Sports Extra and mobile application from 8:30 PM BST prior to moving to national radio from 10:00 PM.
Parker stepped onto the scales nearly 20 pounds heavier compared to the British boxer as the two big men presented confident figures - even if in contrasting manners - ahead of the Saturday feature bout in the capital.
From New Zealand Joseph Parker will put his interim WBO title and shot to fight for the undisputed crown up for grabs versus the perfect Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Unified top heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk has signalled his plan to protect his championship titles against the successful fighter.
"It all comes down to this. It represents all," remarked a serious but concentrated Fabio Wardley, thirty, at yesterday's scale ceremony.
The British contender - who holds the WBA interim strap - registered at seventeen stone five pounds, matching his latest fights.
"This fight before the ultimate challenge. All preparation is completed. Preparation is completed. The intense training is accomplished. Now for some downtime now. Major event tomorrow," he added.
The historic venue in the capital's east hosted not just market goods on the scales as the two boxers confronted each other for the ultimate face-off prior to the main event.
Parker flashed a wink at the camera and moved along to the music.
As he flexed his physique, he appeared imposing and strong as he registered at eighteen stone ten pounds, only five pounds less than his career-heaviest.
It is a major change from the sixteen stone twelve pound iteration who lost his championship to Joshua in 2018.
"We're weary, we're cautious, but I will to fight fire with fire and I'm going to get him," Parker said.
I'm at a higher plane and will dominate him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, sporting an Ipswich top, maintained a straight face, acknowledged the fans, but looked focused.
Although he is the smaller man, Fabio Wardley has superb knockout power. He delivered a dramatic comeback versus Justis Huni in last June, trailing on the scorecards prior to finishing his opponent in the 10th round despite being outboxed for most of the bout.
"Joseph Parker, his corner and the sport's followers will find out I am meant to be at the summit of this division," Fabio Wardley affirmed.
"Every opponent has been the one experts say will beat me. This is that fight. His attributes include exceptional pace, swift, highly seasoned. However My record is perfect to date, and no challenge will shift in the ring."
