Self-assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Less Than Substantial Parker
On-a-roll Joseph Parker (left) boasts a six-fight winning streak, while stoppage expert Fabio Wardley remains unbeaten in twenty career contests.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Fight Location: London's O2 Arena, the capital Date: Saturday, the 25th of October
Live Updates: Tune in for real-time updates and audio coverage through the BBC Sport website and mobile application starting at 20:30 BST prior to moving to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10 PM BST.
The New Zealand fighter registered almost 20lb heavier compared to the British boxer as both heavyweights displayed assured figures - even if in contrasting ways - ahead of Saturday's feature bout in the capital.
From New Zealand Joseph Parker is risking his interim WBO title and shot to fight for the undisputed crown up for grabs facing the perfect Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Unified division king the champion has signalled his intention to defend his four belts against the winner.
"It all comes down to this. It represents all," remarked a determined but focused Wardley, thirty, at Friday's scale ceremony.
The Ipswich fighter - the holder of the interim WBA title - weighed in at 17st 5lb, in line with his latest fights.
"This is the one leading up to the ultimate challenge. Every effort is finished. Camp is ticked off. The grueling sessions is put in. Time for some rest now. Major event ahead," he added.
Spitalfields Market in east London saw more than market goods on the scales as the pair of heavyweights confronted each other for the final time ahead of the main event.
Parker flashed a wink at the lenses and moved along to the music.
Flexing his physique, he seemed powerful and powerful as he tipped the scales at 119 kg, merely 5lb below than his heaviest ever.
This represents a far cry from the sixteen stone twelve pound fighter who lost his world title to AJ in 2018.
"We are cautious, we are wary, but I'm going to fight fire with fire and I'm going to get him," Parker stated.
I'm at a higher plane and will dominate him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, wearing an Ipswich Town jersey, kept a straight face, acknowledged the fans, but looked focused.
Although he is the lighter guy, Wardley has superb KO strength. He staged a dramatic recovery against his opponent in June, down on the scorecards then finishing his opponent in the tenth round even though being outboxed for most of the bout.
"Joseph Parker, his corner and boxing fans will learn I am destined to be at the peak of this weight class," Wardley stated.
"All challengers has been the boxer experts predict will beat me. This is that fight. He is too quick, swift, highly seasoned. Yet I remain unbeaten to date, and no one will shift in the ring."
