Confident Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Less Compared to Bulky Parker
Winning-streak Joseph Parker (on the left) has a six-fight winning streak, while stoppage specialist Wardley remains unbeaten in twenty pro bouts.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Location: London's O2 Arena, London Fight Night: Weekend, the 25th of October
Broadcast Details: Tune in for real-time updates and audio coverage on BBC Sounds and mobile application from half past eight UK time then transitioning to national radio from 10:00 PM.
The New Zealand fighter weighed approximately 20 pounds above compared to the British boxer as both big men cut assured poses - albeit in contrasting ways - leading up to the Saturday feature bout in London.
New Zealand's Parker places his WBO 'interim' belt and shot to challenge for the world title up for grabs against the undefeated Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Unified top heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk has made clear his intention to retain his four belts against the victor.
"It all comes down to this. This means everything," remarked a determined but zoned-in Fabio Wardley, 30, at yesterday's weigh-in.
The Ipswich fighter - the holder of the interim WBA title - came in at 17st 5lb, in line with his recent bouts.
"This fight leading up to the big one. All preparation is finished. Training is ticked off. All the hard work is done. Let's get some downtime now. Big night ahead," he continued.
The East London market in London's east end hosted not just fresh produce on the weighing platform as the two heavyweights faced off for the final time ahead of fight night.
Parker gave a wink at the camera and bobbed along to the music.
Flexing his muscles, he looked powerful and forceful as he tipped the scales at eighteen stone ten pounds, just 5lb below than his career-heaviest.
It is a far cry from the 16st 12lb fighter who surrendered his world title to Anthony Joshua in 2018.
"We're weary, we are careful, but I'm going to match him blow for blow and I intend to connect with him," Parker stated.
I'm at a superior tier and will smash him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, dressed in an football shirt, maintained a focused look, acknowledged the fans, but seemed concentrated.
He may be the smaller man, Wardley has exceptional knockout power. He delivered a dramatic comeback facing his opponent in last June, down on the scorecards prior to finishing his rival in the tenth round despite being outmaneuvered for most of the fight.
"Joseph Parker, his corner and supporters will learn I belong to be at the top of this weight class," Wardley said.
"Every opponent has been the fighter critics claim will overcome me. This is the one. He's superior speed, rapid, vastly experienced. Yet I remain unbeaten yet, and no challenge will shift tomorrow night."
