Assured Wardley Weighs Twenty Pounds Less Than Substantial Parker
On-a-roll Joseph Parker (left) is on a six-bout victory run, while KO expert Wardley has a perfect record in 20 career contests.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Location: London's O2 Arena, London Fight Night: This Saturday, 25 October
Broadcast Details: Catch live text commentary and live radio through BBC 5 Live Sports Extra plus digital platforms starting at 20:30 BST before switching to national radio from 10 PM BST.
Joseph Parker registered almost 20 pounds more against the British boxer as both top fighters cut assured poses - although in different styles - ahead of this weekend's feature bout in the UK.
Kiwi Parker places his WBO interim championship and shot to compete for the global championship on the line against the unbeaten Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Unified top heavyweight Usyk has made clear his aim to defend his four belts facing the winner.
"It all comes down to this. It represents all," said a focused but focused Fabio Wardley, thirty, at yesterday's scale ceremony.
The British contender - who holds the WBA interim strap - registered at 17st 5lb, consistent with his recent bouts.
"This fight prior to the big one. Every effort is done. Preparation is ticked off. The intense training is put in. Now for some rest now. Huge occasion ahead," he continued.
The East London market in east London saw more than typical items on the scales as the pair of fighters faced off for the ultimate face-off ahead of fight night.
Joseph Parker winked at the lenses and swayed along to the tunes.
Showing off his muscles, he looked imposing and strong as he tipped the scales at 18st 10lb, only a handful of pounds less than his career-heaviest.
It is a significant difference from the 107 kg version who lost his belt to Joshua in 2018.
"We're weary, we are careful, but I will to respond with equal force and I intend to connect with him," Joseph Parker stated.
I operate on a higher plane and will overpower him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, wearing an Ipswich Town jersey, maintained a focused look, acknowledged the fans, but appeared focused.
Although he is the lighter guy, Wardley has superb knockout power. He staged a remarkable recovery against his opponent in June, down on the scorecards then stopping his opponent in the 10th round despite being outclassed for the majority of the contest.
"Joseph Parker, his camp and the sport's followers are about to discover I am meant to be at the peak of this weight class," Fabio Wardley said.
"All challengers has been the boxer pundits claim will beat me. Here we are again. He is superior speed, rapid, too experienced. But I remain unbeaten yet, and nothing will change on fight night."