Confident Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Below Than Substantial Parker
Winning-streak Parker (left) boasts a six-match victory run, whereas KO artist Wardley remains unbeaten in twenty pro bouts.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Fight Location: The O2, the capital Date: Saturday, 25 October
Live Updates: Catch live text commentary and listen on BBC 5 Live Sports Extra plus digital platforms starting at 8:30 PM BST before switching to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10 PM BST.
Joseph Parker weighed approximately 20lb more against Fabio Wardley as both top fighters cut self-assured figures - even if in different ways - ahead of the Saturday headliner in the capital.
New Zealand's Joseph Parker is risking his WBO 'interim' belt and shot to compete for the undisputed crown on the line versus the perfect Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Undisputed division king Oleksandr Usyk has made clear his intention to protect his four belts against the victor.
"This is it. It signifies the ultimate," said a serious but zoned-in Fabio Wardley, thirty, at yesterday's pre-fight ritual.
Wardley - who holds the WBA 'interim' belt - registered at 110 kg, matching his recent bouts.
"This fight leading up to the ultimate challenge. All preparation is done. Camp is wrapped up. All the hard work is put in. Let's get some relaxation now. Big night ahead," he continued.
The historic venue in east London witnessed not just fresh produce on the weighing platform as the two heavyweights confronted each other for the last occasion prior to the main event.
Joseph Parker gave a wink at the camera and swayed along to the tunes.
Flexing his strength, he appeared powerful and strong as he weighed in at eighteen stone ten pounds, merely five pounds below than his peak weight.
It is a far cry from the 16st 12lb iteration who was defeated his championship to AJ in the year 2018.
"We are cautious, we are careful, but I will to respond with equal force and I will reach him," Parker said.
I'm at a different level and will dominate him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, wearing an football shirt, kept a serious expression, acknowledged the audience, but appeared zoned in.
He may be the lighter guy, Wardley has superb knockout power. He produced a thrilling comeback facing Justis Huni in June, behind on the scorecards before defeating his foe in the 10th round despite being outboxed for most of the fight.
"His opponent, his corner and the sport's followers are about to discover I am destined to be at the summit of this weight class," Wardley stated.
"All challengers has been the fighter pundits say will beat me. This is that fight. He is exceptional pace, rapid, too experienced. Yet I remain unbeaten yet, and nothing will change on fight night."
