Confident Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Less Below Compared to Bulky Parker
In-form Joseph Parker (left) boasts a six-match winning streak, and knockout specialist Wardley has a perfect record in 20 pro bouts.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Fight Location: O2 Arena, London Date: Weekend, October 25
Broadcast Details: Follow real-time updates and listen via the BBC Sport website and mobile application starting at half past eight UK time prior to moving to national radio from 22:00.
Parker weighed almost 20lb more compared to the British boxer as each heavyweights displayed confident figures - albeit in contrasting styles - leading up to the Saturday headliner in the capital.
New Zealand's Parker places his interim WBO title and shot to fight for the world title at stake versus the unbeaten Fabio Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Undisputed top heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk has indicated his aim to protect his world titles facing the successful fighter.
"This is it. This means the ultimate," said a serious but zoned-in Wardley, aged 30, at Friday's pre-fight ritual.
Wardley - the holder of the WBA interim strap - weighed in at 17st 5lb, matching his previous matches.
"This contest prior to the big one. All the work is done. Camp is ticked off. The grueling sessions is put in. Time for some downtime now. Huge occasion tomorrow," he added.
Spitalfields Market in the capital's east saw beyond typical items on the scales as the both fighters squared up for the final time before the bout.
Parker winked at the photographers and bobbed along to the tunes.
As he flexed his strength, he looked hefty and powerful as he tipped the scales at eighteen stone ten pounds, just a handful of pounds less than his peak weight.
It is a significant difference from the 107 kg iteration who was defeated his championship to AJ in the year 2018.
"We are alert, we're cautious, but I'm going to respond with equal force and I will reach him," Parker stated.
I operate on a higher plane and will smash him - Parker
Fabio Wardley, sporting an Ipswich Town jersey, maintained a straight face, greeted the fans, but appeared zoned in.
Despite being the lighter guy, Wardley has outstanding stopping ability. He produced a remarkable recovery facing Justis Huni in last June, trailing on the judges' cards before finishing his foe in the final round even though being outmaneuvered for the majority of the contest.
"His opponent, his corner and supporters will find out I am meant to be at the peak of this division," Wardley said.
"All challengers has been the boxer experts say will defeat me. This is that fight. His attributes include superior speed, too fast, too experienced. However I remain unbeaten yet, and nothing will shift on fight night."
