Self-assured Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Less Compared to Heavier Parker
On-a-roll Joseph Parker (left) boasts a six-match victory run, while KO specialist Fabio Wardley is undefeated in twenty professional fights.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Location: London's O2 Arena, the capital Date: Weekend, October 25
Broadcast Details: Tune in for real-time updates and audio coverage on the BBC Sport website and app from 8:30 PM BST then transitioning to national radio from 10 PM BST.
The New Zealand fighter registered nearly twenty pounds heavier than the British boxer as the two heavyweights displayed self-assured poses - although in different styles - for Saturday's headliner in the capital.
From New Zealand Parker places his interim WBO title and chance to compete for the world title on the line versus the unbeaten Fabio Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Unified top heavyweight the champion has indicated his aim to defend his four belts against the victor.
"This is it. This means all," remarked a serious but focused Wardley, thirty, at yesterday's weigh-in.
The Ipswich fighter - possessing the WBA interim strap - registered at 17st 5lb, matching his latest fights.
"This contest leading up to the ultimate challenge. All the work is done. Camp is ticked off. All the hard work is done. Let's get some relaxation now. Major event tomorrow," he continued.
Spitalfields Market in London's east end hosted more than typical items on the weighing platform as the both heavyweights squared up for the ultimate face-off prior to the main event.
Parker flashed a wink at the photographers and bobbed along to the music.
Flexing his physique, he looked imposing and forceful as he registered at 18st 10lb, only a handful of pounds lighter than his peak weight.
This represents a far cry from the 107 kg iteration who lost his belt to Anthony Joshua in the year 2018.
"We are alert, we're cautious, but I plan to respond with equal force and I'm going to get him," Joseph Parker stated.
I'm at a superior tier and will dominate him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, wearing an football shirt, kept a serious expression, greeted the audience, but looked zoned in.
He may be the lighter guy, Fabio Wardley has superb KO strength. He produced a dramatic turnaround against Huni in the summer, behind on the judges' cards then finishing his rival in the tenth round despite being outclassed for most of the contest.
"Joseph Parker, his camp and boxing fans will find out I am meant to be at the summit of this heavyweight ranks," Fabio Wardley affirmed.
"Every opponent has been the boxer pundits predict will beat me. This is that fight. He's superior speed, swift, too experienced. But I remain unbeaten so far, and no one will change in the ring."
