Confident Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Less Lighter Compared to Heavier Parker
In-form Parker (left) is on a six-bout winning streak, and stoppage specialist Wardley is undefeated in 20 career contests.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Venue: London's O2 Arena, the capital Fight Night: This Saturday, October 25
Live Updates: Follow round-by-round coverage and listen on BBC Sounds and app starting at half past eight UK time before switching to BBC 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
The New Zealand fighter registered nearly 20lb more compared to his opponent as the two big men displayed self-assured figures - albeit in opposing styles - ahead of this weekend's headliner in the UK.
Kiwi Parker places his WBO interim championship and shot to compete for the undisputed crown on the line against the undefeated Fabio Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Unified top heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk has made clear his plan to protect his world titles facing the victor.
"It all comes down to this. This means everything," said a determined but focused Wardley, thirty, at yesterday's weigh-in.
The Ipswich fighter - who holds the interim WBA title - came in at 17st 5lb, consistent with his recent bouts.
"This contest prior to the big one. All preparation is completed. Preparation is wrapped up. The grueling sessions is accomplished. Time for some downtime now. Big night coming up," he continued.
The historic venue in east London witnessed not just typical items on the scales as the two boxers squared up for the ultimate face-off before the bout.
Parker flashed a wink at the camera and swayed along to the music.
Flexing his strength, he appeared powerful and strong as he registered at eighteen stone ten pounds, just a handful of pounds lighter than his career-heaviest.
This marks a far cry from the 107 kg iteration who lost his championship to Anthony Joshua in the year 2018.
"We are cautious, we're cautious, but I will to match him blow for blow and I will reach him," Parker stated.
I operate on a higher plane and will dominate him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, sporting an Ipswich Town jersey, kept a straight face, acknowledged the crowd, but seemed concentrated.
Despite being the less heavy fighter, Fabio Wardley has exceptional KO strength. He delivered a remarkable recovery versus Justis Huni in last June, trailing on the official tallies then stopping his foe in the 10th round despite being outclassed for most of the bout.
"His opponent, his corner and boxing fans are about to discover I am meant to be at the summit of this weight class," Wardley said.
"Every opponent has been the boxer pundits predict will overcome me. This is that fight. He is too quick, swift, vastly experienced. But My record is perfect yet, and no one will shift on fight night."
