Confident Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Below Compared to Heavier Joseph Parker
Winning-streak Joseph Parker (left) has a six-bout unbeaten stretch, and stoppage specialist Wardley remains unbeaten in twenty career contests.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Location: The O2, London Fight Night: Weekend, the 25th of October
Coverage: Tune in for live text commentary and audio coverage on the BBC Sport website and mobile application starting at 20:30 BST before switching to BBC 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
Parker registered almost 20lb heavier than Fabio Wardley as the two heavyweights presented self-assured poses - although in different styles - ahead of the Saturday main event in the UK.
New Zealand's Joseph Parker will put his WBO interim championship and opportunity to fight for the undisputed crown at stake facing the undefeated Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has made clear his plan to retain his championship titles facing the winner.
"This is the moment. It signifies the ultimate," said a focused but focused Wardley, aged 30, at yesterday's weigh-in.
The Ipswich fighter - possessing the WBA 'interim' belt - registered at seventeen stone five pounds, matching his previous matches.
"This contest prior to the big one. Every effort is completed. Training is wrapped up. All the hard work is accomplished. Time for some relaxation now. Huge occasion coming up," he stated further.
The historic venue in east London saw beyond fresh produce on the measure as the two boxers confronted each other for the ultimate face-off before the bout.
Joseph Parker winked at the camera and bobbed along to the tunes.
Showing off his muscles, he appeared hefty and strong as he weighed in at eighteen stone ten pounds, just five pounds below than his peak weight.
This marks a major change from the 16st 12lb fighter who lost his world title to Joshua in 2018.
"We're weary, we're cautious, but I plan to respond with equal force and I will reach him," Joseph Parker said.
I have reached a superior tier and will overpower him - Parker
Wardley, sporting an Ipswich top, kept a focused look, greeted the fans, but appeared zoned in.
He may be the less heavy fighter, Fabio Wardley has outstanding stopping ability. He delivered a remarkable comeback facing Huni in June, behind on the scorecards then defeating his foe in the 10th round even though being outmaneuvered for most of the fight.
"Parker, his team and supporters will learn I am destined to be at the summit of this heavyweight ranks," Fabio Wardley said.
"All challengers has been the fighter critics say will overcome me. Here we are again. He's exceptional pace, rapid, vastly experienced. Yet I haven't been beaten yet, and no challenge will alter on fight night."