Self-assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Lighter Than Heavier Parker
Winning-streak Joseph Parker (left) is on a six-bout unbeaten stretch, while stoppage specialist Fabio Wardley has a perfect record in 20 pro bouts.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Location: London's O2 Arena, the capital Date: Saturday, the 25th of October
Live Updates: Tune in for real-time updates and live radio on the BBC Sport website and mobile application starting at 20:30 BST before switching to BBC 5 Live from 22:00.
Parker stepped onto the scales approximately 20 pounds heavier compared to Fabio Wardley as each top fighters displayed assured appearances - albeit in different styles - leading up to this weekend's feature bout in the capital.
Kiwi Parker places his WBO 'interim' belt and shot to challenge for the global championship on the line against the unbeaten Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Undisputed division king Oleksandr Usyk has signalled his plan to protect his championship titles facing the victor.
"This is it. It signifies all," remarked a focused but concentrated Fabio Wardley, 30, at yesterday's pre-fight ritual.
The British contender - the holder of the WBA 'interim' belt - came in at 17st 5lb, in line with his previous matches.
"This is the one before the one. Every effort is completed. Camp is completed. All the hard work is put in. Now for some downtime now. Major event ahead," he added.
Spitalfields Market in London's east end hosted more than typical items on the weighing platform as the both fighters faced off for the ultimate face-off before the main event.
Joseph Parker winked at the camera and swayed along to the music.
Flexing his physique, he appeared powerful and strong as he weighed in at eighteen stone ten pounds, merely 5lb less than his peak weight.
It is a major change from the 107 kg iteration who was defeated his world title to Joshua in 2018.
"We're weary, we are careful, but I'm going to fight fire with fire and I intend to connect with him," Parker declared.
I operate on a superior tier and will smash him - Parker
Fabio Wardley, wearing an Ipswich Town jersey, maintained a straight face, greeted the fans, but appeared zoned in.
Although he is the less heavy fighter, Fabio Wardley has exceptional KO strength. He produced a remarkable turnaround facing his opponent in last June, down on the judges' cards before stopping his foe in the final round despite being outclassed for much of the contest.
"Joseph Parker, his camp and boxing fans will learn I am destined to be at the top of this weight class," Wardley said.
"Each rival has been the boxer critics predict will beat me. This is that fight. His attributes include too quick, rapid, vastly experienced. But I remain unbeaten so far, and nothing will shift in the ring."
