Confident Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Below Than Substantial Joseph Parker
Winning-streak Parker (on the left) boasts a six-match unbeaten stretch, and stoppage specialist Wardley has a perfect record in twenty pro bouts.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Fight Location: The O2, London Event Date: Saturday, 25 October
Coverage: Catch round-by-round coverage and audio coverage through BBC 5 Live Sports Extra plus digital platforms from 20:30 BST before switching to BBC Radio 5 Live from 22:00.
Joseph Parker stepped onto the scales almost 20lb heavier compared to his opponent as both big men cut self-assured appearances - albeit in contrasting manners - ahead of this weekend's main event in London.
Kiwi Joseph Parker is risking his WBO 'interim' belt and chance to fight for the undisputed crown up for grabs against the unbeaten Fabio Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Unified division king the champion has indicated his plan to defend his four belts versus the winner.
"It all comes down to this. It represents the ultimate," remarked a focused but zoned-in Fabio Wardley, aged 30, at yesterday's scale ceremony.
Wardley - who holds the interim WBA title - registered at seventeen stone five pounds, consistent with his latest fights.
"This is the one prior to the one. All preparation is finished. Preparation is completed. The grueling sessions is put in. Let's get some rest now. Huge occasion coming up," he added.
Spitalfields Market in London's east end saw beyond fresh produce on the measure as the pair of fighters faced off for the last occasion ahead of the bout.
Parker flashed a wink at the photographers and swayed along to the beat.
Flexing his strength, he seemed imposing and strong as he weighed in at eighteen stone ten pounds, only 5lb lighter than his peak weight.
This marks a far cry from the 16st 12lb fighter who surrendered his world title to AJ in 2018.
"We are cautious, we are careful, but I plan to respond with equal force and I will reach him," Joseph Parker said.
I have reached a superior tier and will smash him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, sporting an football shirt, kept a focused look, acknowledged the fans, but looked zoned in.
Although he is the less heavy fighter, Fabio Wardley has exceptional stopping ability. He staged a remarkable comeback facing Justis Huni in the summer, behind on the judges' cards before finishing his opponent in the tenth round although being outboxed for most of the fight.
"Parker, his corner and supporters will learn I am destined to be at the peak of this division," Wardley affirmed.
"All challengers has been the fighter pundits say will defeat me. Here we are again. He is superior speed, too fast, too experienced. However I haven't been beaten to date, and no one will alter on fight night."
