Assured Fabio Wardley Weighs Twenty Pounds Below Than Heavier Joseph Parker
In-form Joseph Parker (on the left) has a six-bout victory run, and stoppage specialist Fabio Wardley is undefeated in twenty professional fights.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Location: London's O2 Arena, London Event Date: Weekend, 25 October
Broadcast Details: Catch live text commentary and listen on BBC 5 Live Sports Extra and mobile application from half past eight UK time prior to moving to national radio from 22:00.
Joseph Parker stepped onto the scales approximately 20 pounds heavier than the British boxer as the two top fighters displayed assured figures - although in opposing manners - for this weekend's feature bout in the capital.
From New Zealand Parker is risking his interim WBO title and shot to challenge for the undisputed crown on the line versus the undefeated Wardley at the London venue.
Reigning top heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk has indicated his intention to protect his championship titles against the successful fighter.
"This is it. It signifies all," stated a serious but focused Fabio Wardley, 30, at Friday's scale ceremony.
Wardley - possessing the interim WBA title - registered at seventeen stone five pounds, consistent with his latest fights.
"This is the one before the one. All the work is done. Camp is completed. The grueling sessions is accomplished. Time for some downtime now. Big night tomorrow," he stated further.
The East London market in the capital's east witnessed beyond market goods on the measure as the both heavyweights squared up for the final time before the bout.
Parker flashed a wink at the photographers and moved along to the music.
As he flexed his physique, he looked powerful and strong as he weighed in at eighteen stone ten pounds, just 5lb less than his career-heaviest.
This marks a significant difference from the 16st 12lb version who lost his belt to Joshua in 2018.
"We are alert, we're cautious, but I plan to fight fire with fire and I'm going to get him," Joseph Parker said.
I have reached a different level and will smash him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, wearing an Ipswich Town jersey, kept a straight face, greeted the fans, but looked focused.
Although he is the smaller man, Fabio Wardley has outstanding knockout power. He delivered a thrilling turnaround against his opponent in the summer, behind on the scorecards before stopping his opponent in the 10th round despite being outboxed for much of the bout.
"Joseph Parker, his team and supporters will find out I am destined to be at the peak of this heavyweight ranks," Fabio Wardley stated.
"Each rival has been the boxer pundits say will overcome me. Here we are again. He is exceptional pace, too fast, too experienced. But I haven't been beaten yet, and no challenge will shift tomorrow night."
