Confident Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Less Than Substantial Joseph Parker
In-form Joseph Parker (on the left) is on a six-bout victory run, while KO artist Wardley remains unbeaten in 20 career contests.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Venue: O2 Arena, London Fight Night: This Saturday, 25 October
Broadcast Details: Follow real-time updates and live radio on BBC Sounds and app starting at 8:30 PM BST before switching to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10 PM BST.
Joseph Parker weighed almost 20lb above against the British boxer as each heavyweights displayed self-assured figures - even if in different ways - ahead of the Saturday headliner in the UK.
Kiwi Parker will put his interim WBO title and opportunity to fight for the world title on the line facing the perfect Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Unified top heavyweight the champion has signalled his intention to retain his four belts against the successful fighter.
"This is the moment. This means everything," remarked a focused but focused Wardley, 30, at the Friday weigh-in.
Wardley - who holds the interim WBA title - came in at 17st 5lb, consistent with his previous matches.
"This fight leading up to the big one. Every effort is done. Preparation is completed. All the hard work is put in. Let's get some relaxation now. Huge occasion coming up," he added.
The East London market in the capital's east saw not just typical items on the measure as the pair of fighters squared up for the last occasion before the bout.
Parker flashed a wink at the lenses and moved along to the tunes.
Showing off his physique, he seemed powerful and strong as he tipped the scales at 119 kg, only 5lb below than his peak weight.
It is a significant difference from the sixteen stone twelve pound fighter who surrendered his world title to AJ in 2018.
"We're weary, we are wary, but I will to fight fire with fire and I'm going to get him," Joseph Parker said.
I have reached a superior tier and will overpower him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, dressed in an Ipswich top, maintained a focused look, nodded to the fans, but seemed zoned in.
Although he is the less heavy fighter, Fabio Wardley has superb KO strength. He produced a thrilling comeback facing Justis Huni in last June, trailing on the judges' cards then finishing his rival in the final round despite being outclassed for the majority of the bout.
"Joseph Parker, his corner and the sport's followers will learn I belong to be at the summit of this heavyweight ranks," Fabio Wardley said.
"All challengers has been the one critics say will defeat me. This is that fight. He's exceptional pace, rapid, highly seasoned. But I haven't been beaten so far, and nothing will change on fight night."
