Assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Lighter Compared to Bulky Joseph Parker
Winning-streak Joseph Parker (left) boasts a six-fight victory run, whereas stoppage specialist Fabio Wardley remains unbeaten in 20 career contests.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Venue: O2 Arena, the capital Fight Night: This Saturday, 25 October
Broadcast Details: Catch live text commentary and audio coverage through the BBC Sport website and mobile application starting at 8:30 PM BST then transitioning to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
Parker registered approximately twenty pounds above against his opponent as each top fighters presented confident appearances - although in contrasting ways - leading up to this weekend's feature bout in the UK.
Kiwi Parker will put his WBO interim championship and shot to challenge for the global championship on the line versus the undefeated Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Unified heavyweight champion the champion has indicated his plan to protect his four belts versus the successful fighter.
"This is it. It signifies all," stated a serious but focused Wardley, 30, at Friday's pre-fight ritual.
The Ipswich fighter - who holds the WBA 'interim' belt - registered at 110 kg, consistent with his latest fights.
"This fight leading up to the one. Every effort is done. Training is wrapped up. The intense training is accomplished. Now for some downtime now. Major event ahead," he added.
The historic venue in east London hosted more than market goods on the measure as the two heavyweights confronted each other for the last occasion ahead of the bout.
Joseph Parker winked at the lenses and moved along to the music.
Flexing his physique, he seemed hefty and powerful as he tipped the scales at 119 kg, merely five pounds less than his career-heaviest.
It is a major change from the 16st 12lb version who lost his championship to AJ in the year 2018.
"We're weary, we're cautious, but I will to match him blow for blow and I'm going to get him," Joseph Parker declared.
I operate on a higher plane and will overpower him - Parker
Fabio Wardley, wearing an Ipswich Town jersey, held a straight face, acknowledged the crowd, but seemed concentrated.
He may be the smaller man, Wardley has superb stopping ability. He staged a thrilling turnaround versus his opponent in last June, down on the judges' cards prior to stopping his foe in the final round although being outclassed for much of the bout.
"His opponent, his team and supporters are about to discover I belong to be at the summit of this weight class," Wardley stated.
"Each rival has been the one critics say will beat me. This is that fight. He's exceptional pace, rapid, vastly experienced. However I haven't been beaten so far, and no challenge will alter in the ring."