Assured Wardley Weighs Twenty Pounds Less Less Compared to Bulky Parker
Winning-streak Joseph Parker (on the left) is on a six-bout unbeaten stretch, and stoppage expert Fabio Wardley is undefeated in 20 pro bouts.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Venue: London's O2 Arena, London Fight Night: Saturday, October 25
Live Updates: Follow real-time updates and audio coverage on BBC Sounds plus digital platforms starting at 8:30 PM BST then transitioning to BBC 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
Parker registered almost 20 pounds more compared to his opponent as each heavyweights cut self-assured figures - even if in contrasting styles - leading up to this weekend's main event in London.
Kiwi Parker places his WBO interim championship and opportunity to fight for the global championship at stake versus the unbeaten Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Reigning heavyweight champion Usyk has signalled his intention to defend his world titles versus the successful fighter.
"It all comes down to this. It represents the ultimate," said a determined but zoned-in Fabio Wardley, thirty, at yesterday's weigh-in.
Wardley - possessing the interim WBA title - registered at seventeen stone five pounds, matching his recent bouts.
"This is the one before the one. All the work is finished. Preparation is wrapped up. All the hard work is done. Now for some relaxation now. Big night coming up," he added.
Spitalfields Market in east London saw beyond typical items on the scales as the two fighters squared up for the final time prior to the main event.
Joseph Parker flashed a wink at the camera and swayed along to the music.
Showing off his strength, he looked hefty and strong as he tipped the scales at eighteen stone ten pounds, merely a handful of pounds less than his career-heaviest.
It is a significant difference from the sixteen stone twelve pound version who was defeated his championship to Joshua in 2018.
"We are cautious, we are wary, but I will to match him blow for blow and I'm going to get him," Parker said.
I operate on a higher plane and will overpower him - Parker
Wardley, wearing an Ipswich Town jersey, held a focused look, greeted the crowd, but looked zoned in.
Although he is the smaller man, Wardley has exceptional stopping ability. He staged a thrilling turnaround versus Justis Huni in last June, trailing on the scorecards prior to finishing his foe in the 10th round despite being outclassed for most of the contest.
"Joseph Parker, his camp and supporters will find out I belong to be at the peak of this division," Wardley stated.
"Every opponent has been the boxer critics say will defeat me. This is the one. His attributes include exceptional pace, swift, vastly experienced. However I haven't been beaten so far, and nothing will shift on fight night."
