Assured Fabio Wardley Weighs 20lb Lighter Than Substantial Parker
Winning-streak Parker (on the left) is on a six-fight victory run, whereas stoppage expert Fabio Wardley remains unbeaten in 20 pro bouts.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Fight Location: London's O2 Arena, the capital Fight Night: Saturday, the 25th of October
Coverage: Tune in for live text commentary and live radio via the BBC Sport website plus digital platforms from 8:30 PM BST then transitioning to national radio from 22:00.
The New Zealand fighter stepped onto the scales approximately 20lb heavier than Fabio Wardley as both big men presented self-assured poses - although in contrasting manners - leading up to this weekend's main event in the UK.
Kiwi Joseph Parker will put his WBO interim championship and opportunity to fight for the undisputed crown on the line versus the unbeaten Wardley at the London venue.
Unified top heavyweight the champion has indicated his intention to defend his four belts facing the winner.
"This is it. It signifies all," stated a serious but zoned-in Wardley, aged 30, at the Friday pre-fight ritual.
Wardley - the holder of the WBA 'interim' belt - weighed in at 17st 5lb, matching his latest fights.
"This is the one prior to the one. All preparation is completed. Camp is wrapped up. All the hard work is done. Time for some rest now. Huge occasion ahead," he stated further.
Spitalfields Market in London's east end witnessed not just market goods on the weighing platform as the both heavyweights confronted each other for the final time ahead of the main event.
Joseph Parker gave a wink at the photographers and moved along to the music.
Flexing his physique, he looked hefty and forceful as he weighed in at 119 kg, merely five pounds below than his career-heaviest.
It is a major change from the 107 kg iteration who was defeated his championship to Anthony Joshua in 2018.
"We are alert, we are careful, but I will to match him blow for blow and I will reach him," Parker stated.
I'm at a superior tier and will overpower him - Parker
Wardley, wearing an Ipswich top, kept a straight face, acknowledged the fans, but seemed focused.
Despite being the less heavy fighter, Wardley has exceptional knockout power. He produced a dramatic recovery facing his opponent in last June, down on the judges' cards before defeating his foe in the final round although being outmaneuvered for the majority of the contest.
"His opponent, his camp and the sport's followers will find out I belong to be at the peak of this division," Wardley said.
"Every opponent has been the fighter pundits predict will defeat me. This is the one. His attributes include too quick, swift, highly seasoned. However I haven't been beaten yet, and nothing will change in the ring."