Self-assured Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Below Than Heavier Parker
On-a-roll Joseph Parker (on the left) has a six-fight winning streak, while knockout specialist Fabio Wardley is undefeated in 20 professional fights.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Venue: The O2, London Date: This Saturday, 25 October
Live Updates: Follow round-by-round coverage and audio coverage via BBC Sounds and mobile application from 20:30 BST then transitioning to BBC 5 Live from 10 PM BST.
Parker stepped onto the scales nearly twenty pounds heavier compared to the British boxer as each big men presented self-assured appearances - although in contrasting styles - leading up to this weekend's main event in the UK.
Kiwi Parker places his interim WBO title and opportunity to compete for the global championship up for grabs versus the perfect Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Undisputed top heavyweight the champion has indicated his aim to protect his four belts versus the successful fighter.
"This is it. This means everything," stated a determined but focused Fabio Wardley, thirty, at yesterday's scale ceremony.
Wardley - the holder of the WBA interim strap - registered at seventeen stone five pounds, consistent with his latest fights.
"This fight before the one. All preparation is finished. Training is completed. The grueling sessions is put in. Let's get some rest now. Big night coming up," he added.
Spitalfields Market in the capital's east hosted not just fresh produce on the weighing platform as the both boxers faced off for the final time ahead of the main event.
Parker flashed a wink at the camera and moved along to the music.
Flexing his physique, he looked powerful and forceful as he tipped the scales at 119 kg, just five pounds less than his peak weight.
This represents a far cry from the sixteen stone twelve pound iteration who lost his belt to Joshua in 2018.
"We're weary, we are wary, but I'm going to fight fire with fire and I intend to connect with him," Joseph Parker declared.
I operate on a different level and will smash him - Parker
Wardley, wearing an Ipswich top, kept a focused look, nodded to the fans, but appeared concentrated.
He may be the smaller man, Fabio Wardley has superb stopping ability. He produced a remarkable turnaround versus his opponent in last June, behind on the scorecards prior to finishing his foe in the 10th round even though being outmaneuvered for the majority of the fight.
"Parker, his team and boxing fans will find out I am destined to be at the top of this division," Fabio Wardley affirmed.
"All challengers has been the boxer critics predict will defeat me. This is that fight. He is superior speed, swift, vastly experienced. Yet I remain unbeaten yet, and no one will change tomorrow night."