Assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Below Than Substantial Joseph Parker
In-form Parker (on the left) is on a six-fight victory run, while stoppage specialist Fabio Wardley is undefeated in 20 career contests.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Venue: The O2, the capital Date: Weekend, the 25th of October
Broadcast Details: Tune in for real-time updates and audio coverage through BBC Sounds and mobile application starting at half past eight UK time then transitioning to national radio from 10:00 PM.
Parker stepped onto the scales nearly twenty pounds above against the British boxer as each top fighters displayed assured figures - even if in opposing manners - ahead of Saturday's headliner in the capital.
From New Zealand Parker is risking his WBO 'interim' belt and chance to compete for the global championship at stake against the undefeated Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has made clear his aim to protect his championship titles against the successful fighter.
"It all comes down to this. It represents everything," remarked a focused but concentrated Fabio Wardley, aged 30, at the Friday weigh-in.
The Ipswich fighter - possessing the WBA 'interim' belt - weighed in at 17st 5lb, consistent with his previous matches.
"This fight before the one. Every effort is done. Camp is wrapped up. All the hard work is put in. Now for some rest now. Major event tomorrow," he stated further.
The East London market in east London hosted more than market goods on the weighing platform as the both fighters confronted each other for the final time before fight night.
Joseph Parker flashed a wink at the camera and moved along to the music.
Flexing his strength, he seemed hefty and powerful as he tipped the scales at eighteen stone ten pounds, just a handful of pounds less than his heaviest ever.
It is a far cry from the 107 kg iteration who lost his belt to AJ in the year 2018.
"We are alert, we are careful, but I will to fight fire with fire and I'm going to get him," Parker stated.
I operate on a higher plane and will overpower him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, sporting an Ipswich top, held a focused look, greeted the audience, but looked zoned in.
He may be the smaller man, Wardley has superb KO strength. He staged a dramatic comeback versus Huni in the summer, down on the judges' cards then defeating his rival in the 10th round although being outclassed for much of the contest.
"Joseph Parker, his camp and supporters will learn I am meant to be at the peak of this weight class," Fabio Wardley affirmed.
"Every opponent has been the boxer pundits predict will beat me. This is the one. He is superior speed, rapid, vastly experienced. However I remain unbeaten so far, and nothing will change on fight night."
