Assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Less Compared to Heavier Parker
On-a-roll Joseph Parker (left) boasts a six-bout winning streak, whereas stoppage specialist Fabio Wardley remains unbeaten in twenty career contests.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Venue: London's O2 Arena, the capital Fight Night: Saturday, the 25th of October
Coverage: Tune in for round-by-round coverage and audio coverage on BBC 5 Live Sports Extra plus digital platforms starting at half past eight UK time then transitioning to national radio from 10 PM BST.
Joseph Parker registered approximately 20lb above compared to his opponent as the two top fighters presented assured poses - albeit in opposing styles - ahead of this weekend's headliner in the capital.
Kiwi Joseph Parker is risking his WBO interim championship and chance to challenge for the global championship at stake versus the perfect Wardley at the London venue.
Reigning division king Oleksandr Usyk has made clear his aim to retain his four belts against the winner.
"This is the moment. It signifies all," stated a determined but zoned-in Fabio Wardley, thirty, at Friday's pre-fight ritual.
The Ipswich fighter - the holder of the WBA interim strap - weighed in at 17st 5lb, matching his recent bouts.
"This is the one leading up to the big one. Every effort is completed. Camp is completed. The intense training is put in. Time for some downtime now. Huge occasion tomorrow," he stated further.
Spitalfields Market in east London hosted beyond market goods on the measure as the pair of heavyweights squared up for the last occasion ahead of the bout.
Parker gave a wink at the lenses and bobbed along to the beat.
As he flexed his strength, he appeared imposing and powerful as he weighed in at 18st 10lb, only 5lb lighter than his career-heaviest.
This marks a significant difference from the 16st 12lb version who lost his world title to Anthony Joshua in 2018.
"We are cautious, we are careful, but I will to respond with equal force and I'm going to get him," Joseph Parker said.
I have reached a different level and will dominate him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, sporting an Ipswich Town jersey, maintained a focused look, nodded to the crowd, but looked focused.
Despite being the less heavy fighter, Wardley has exceptional KO strength. He staged a dramatic turnaround against Justis Huni in the summer, down on the scorecards prior to finishing his foe in the tenth round despite being outboxed for much of the bout.
"Joseph Parker, his camp and the sport's followers will find out I am meant to be at the summit of this weight class," Wardley stated.
"Every opponent has been the fighter experts say will overcome me. This is the one. His attributes include superior speed, swift, vastly experienced. However My record is perfect yet, and no one will shift in the ring."
