Self-assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Less Less Compared to Heavier Joseph Parker
Winning-streak Parker (on the left) has a six-bout winning streak, while KO expert Wardley remains unbeaten in 20 professional fights.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Fight Location: The O2, London Fight Night: Saturday, October 25
Broadcast Details: Catch live text commentary and listen via BBC 5 Live Sports Extra and mobile application starting at half past eight UK time prior to moving to BBC 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
Joseph Parker stepped onto the scales nearly 20 pounds heavier against the British boxer as both heavyweights cut assured figures - albeit in different styles - leading up to this weekend's headliner in the UK.
Kiwi Joseph Parker will put his WBO 'interim' belt and opportunity to compete for the global championship on the line versus the unbeaten Wardley at the London venue.
Reigning top heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk has signalled his plan to protect his four belts against the successful fighter.
"This is the moment. This means all," stated a focused but concentrated Fabio Wardley, thirty, at Friday's weigh-in.
The Ipswich fighter - possessing the WBA 'interim' belt - weighed in at seventeen stone five pounds, consistent with his latest fights.
"This contest leading up to the big one. Every effort is done. Training is ticked off. All the hard work is accomplished. Let's get some rest now. Big night ahead," he added.
The East London market in the capital's east witnessed not just fresh produce on the scales as the both heavyweights squared up for the ultimate face-off before the bout.
Joseph Parker flashed a wink at the lenses and bobbed along to the beat.
As he flexed his physique, he seemed imposing and strong as he weighed in at 119 kg, merely a handful of pounds lighter than his peak weight.
This marks a far cry from the sixteen stone twelve pound fighter who was defeated his championship to Joshua in the year 2018.
"We are alert, we are wary, but I will to respond with equal force and I will reach him," Parker said.
I operate on a different level and will overpower him - Parker
Fabio Wardley, sporting an football shirt, kept a straight face, nodded to the audience, but appeared zoned in.
Despite being the lighter guy, Wardley has outstanding knockout power. He delivered a thrilling turnaround facing Justis Huni in the summer, down on the scorecards before defeating his rival in the final round although being outboxed for most of the contest.
"Parker, his corner and the sport's followers will find out I am destined to be at the summit of this weight class," Fabio Wardley stated.
"Every opponent has been the fighter critics claim will defeat me. This is the one. He's too quick, swift, too experienced. Yet I haven't been beaten so far, and no challenge will change tomorrow night."
