Self-assured Wardley Weighs 20lb Less Compared to Bulky Parker
On-a-roll Joseph Parker (on the left) is on a six-bout winning streak, and knockout specialist Wardley is undefeated in 20 pro bouts.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Venue: The O2, the capital Date: Weekend, October 25
Broadcast Details: Catch real-time updates and listen on the BBC Sport website plus digital platforms starting at half past eight UK time before switching to BBC 5 Live from 22:00.
Parker registered almost 20 pounds above compared to Fabio Wardley as the two top fighters displayed confident figures - even if in contrasting styles - leading up to the Saturday feature bout in London.
From New Zealand Joseph Parker will put his interim WBO title and opportunity to fight for the undisputed crown on the line versus the undefeated Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Undisputed division king the champion has made clear his aim to defend his four belts facing the winner.
"This is the moment. It signifies the ultimate," stated a focused but zoned-in Fabio Wardley, aged 30, at yesterday's pre-fight ritual.
Wardley - possessing the WBA interim strap - registered at 110 kg, matching his recent bouts.
"This contest prior to the ultimate challenge. All the work is finished. Training is ticked off. All the hard work is put in. Time for some downtime now. Huge occasion coming up," he continued.
Spitalfields Market in east London hosted more than market goods on the scales as the two fighters confronted each other for the final time prior to fight night.
Parker flashed a wink at the photographers and bobbed along to the music.
Showing off his strength, he looked imposing and strong as he tipped the scales at eighteen stone ten pounds, merely 5lb below than his career-heaviest.
This represents a major change from the 107 kg fighter who lost his championship to Anthony Joshua in the year 2018.
"We're weary, we're cautious, but I'm going to match him blow for blow and I will reach him," Joseph Parker declared.
I'm at a different level and will dominate him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, sporting an football shirt, maintained a focused look, acknowledged the crowd, but looked zoned in.
He may be the less heavy fighter, Fabio Wardley has exceptional KO strength. He staged a dramatic recovery versus his opponent in the summer, down on the scorecards then stopping his opponent in the tenth round even though being outclassed for the majority of the contest.
"Parker, his team and the sport's followers will learn I am destined to be at the summit of this heavyweight ranks," Fabio Wardley affirmed.
"All challengers has been the boxer critics claim will beat me. This is the one. His attributes include too quick, swift, vastly experienced. Yet I haven't been beaten so far, and no one will shift tomorrow night."
