Self-assured Wardley Weighs Twenty Pounds Less Lighter Compared to Heavier Joseph Parker
In-form Parker (left) is on a six-fight unbeaten stretch, while KO expert Wardley has a perfect record in twenty professional fights.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Venue: London's O2 Arena, London Date: Saturday, October 25
Broadcast Details: Catch round-by-round coverage and audio coverage on BBC Sounds and mobile application starting at half past eight UK time then transitioning to BBC 5 Live from 22:00.
Joseph Parker stepped onto the scales nearly 20 pounds more compared to the British boxer as the two heavyweights presented self-assured figures - albeit in different ways - ahead of Saturday's main event in London.
Kiwi Joseph Parker is risking his WBO interim championship and opportunity to fight for the global championship on the line facing the perfect Fabio Wardley at the London venue.
Unified division king the champion has signalled his aim to defend his world titles versus the successful fighter.
"This is it. This means all," remarked a determined but zoned-in Wardley, thirty, at Friday's weigh-in.
The Ipswich fighter - the holder of the interim WBA title - weighed in at seventeen stone five pounds, consistent with his previous matches.
"This is the one leading up to the one. All the work is completed. Preparation is ticked off. The grueling sessions is put in. Time for some rest now. Major event ahead," he stated further.
The historic venue in east London saw beyond fresh produce on the scales as the pair of fighters squared up for the ultimate face-off ahead of the main event.
Joseph Parker gave a wink at the photographers and moved along to the music.
Showing off his muscles, he looked hefty and strong as he registered at 119 kg, merely five pounds lighter than his heaviest ever.
This marks a far cry from the 16st 12lb iteration who surrendered his world title to Joshua in the year 2018.
"We are cautious, we're cautious, but I will to fight fire with fire and I'm going to get him," Joseph Parker said.
I'm at a different level and will dominate him - Parker
Wardley, wearing an Ipswich Town jersey, kept a straight face, greeted the fans, but seemed zoned in.
Although he is the less heavy fighter, Wardley has superb KO strength. He delivered a dramatic turnaround versus Justis Huni in the summer, behind on the scorecards then finishing his foe in the tenth round although being outboxed for much of the bout.
"Parker, his camp and the sport's followers are about to discover I am meant to be at the top of this heavyweight ranks," Wardley said.
"Each rival has been the one experts claim will beat me. This is that fight. His attributes include exceptional pace, rapid, highly seasoned. However I remain unbeaten so far, and nothing will alter tomorrow night."
