Assured Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Less Less Compared to Bulky Joseph Parker
Winning-streak Joseph Parker (left) boasts a six-fight winning streak, while stoppage artist Fabio Wardley remains unbeaten in twenty pro bouts.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Fight Location: London's O2 Arena, London Event Date: Saturday, 25 October
Live Updates: Follow round-by-round coverage and listen on the BBC Sport website and app from 20:30 BST prior to moving to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
The New Zealand fighter stepped onto the scales almost 20 pounds heavier than his opponent as the two heavyweights cut self-assured poses - even if in contrasting ways - leading up to the Saturday feature bout in the UK.
From New Zealand Joseph Parker places his WBO 'interim' belt and chance to challenge for the undisputed crown up for grabs versus the perfect Fabio Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Reigning heavyweight champion Usyk has signalled his aim to defend his four belts facing the victor.
"It all comes down to this. It represents everything," stated a serious but focused Fabio Wardley, aged 30, at yesterday's scale ceremony.
The British contender - possessing the WBA interim strap - weighed in at 110 kg, matching his previous matches.
"This is the one prior to the ultimate challenge. All the work is done. Camp is completed. The grueling sessions is done. Let's get some rest now. Big night ahead," he continued.
The East London market in east London witnessed more than market goods on the weighing platform as the two fighters faced off for the ultimate face-off before the main event.
Joseph Parker flashed a wink at the photographers and moved along to the beat.
Flexing his physique, he appeared powerful and forceful as he registered at eighteen stone ten pounds, just 5lb lighter than his heaviest ever.
This marks a major change from the sixteen stone twelve pound version who lost his championship to Joshua in 2018.
"We are cautious, we're cautious, but I will to fight fire with fire and I will reach him," Joseph Parker said.
I have reached a superior tier and will dominate him - Parker
Wardley, wearing an Ipswich Town jersey, kept a focused look, nodded to the fans, but seemed concentrated.
Although he is the smaller man, Wardley has superb KO strength. He staged a thrilling comeback versus his opponent in June, trailing on the judges' cards before finishing his opponent in the final round although being outmaneuvered for most of the contest.
"Joseph Parker, his camp and the sport's followers are about to discover I am destined to be at the peak of this weight class," Fabio Wardley affirmed.
"Every opponent has been the one pundits say will overcome me. Here we are again. He's superior speed, too fast, vastly experienced. Yet My record is perfect to date, and nothing will shift in the ring."
