Confident Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Below Than Heavier Joseph Parker
In-form Joseph Parker (on the left) boasts a six-match winning streak, and stoppage specialist Fabio Wardley is undefeated in 20 professional fights.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Location: The O2, London Event Date: Weekend, the 25th of October
Coverage: Tune in for round-by-round coverage and live radio via the BBC Sport website plus digital platforms starting at half past eight UK time prior to moving to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10 PM BST.
Joseph Parker weighed almost twenty pounds heavier compared to his opponent as both big men presented self-assured figures - albeit in different manners - for Saturday's main event in London.
New Zealand's Joseph Parker will put his WBO interim championship and chance to fight for the global championship on the line against the undefeated Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Unified top heavyweight the champion has signalled his intention to protect his four belts facing the successful fighter.
"This is the moment. This means everything," said a determined but focused Wardley, thirty, at yesterday's pre-fight ritual.
The British contender - who holds the WBA 'interim' belt - came in at 110 kg, in line with his latest fights.
"This fight prior to the big one. Every effort is completed. Camp is wrapped up. All the hard work is put in. Time for some rest now. Major event coming up," he added.
The historic venue in the capital's east witnessed not just market goods on the scales as the both boxers confronted each other for the final time prior to the bout.
Joseph Parker gave a wink at the camera and moved along to the music.
Showing off his muscles, he looked imposing and powerful as he tipped the scales at 18st 10lb, merely a handful of pounds below than his career-heaviest.
It is a far cry from the 107 kg fighter who lost his championship to Joshua in the year 2018.
"We're weary, we're cautious, but I plan to respond with equal force and I'm going to get him," Parker declared.
I have reached a different level and will overpower him - Parker
Fabio Wardley, wearing an football shirt, kept a serious expression, acknowledged the fans, but looked concentrated.
Although he is the less heavy fighter, Fabio Wardley has outstanding stopping ability. He produced a thrilling turnaround facing Justis Huni in the summer, down on the official tallies prior to finishing his opponent in the final round even though being outclassed for the majority of the fight.
"Joseph Parker, his camp and the sport's followers will learn I am destined to be at the peak of this heavyweight ranks," Fabio Wardley said.
"Every opponent has been the fighter critics say will defeat me. Here we are again. He is superior speed, swift, vastly experienced. But My record is perfect yet, and no challenge will alter on fight night."
