Assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Lighter Compared to Substantial Joseph Parker
In-form Parker (left) is on a six-bout victory run, while knockout artist Fabio Wardley has a perfect record in twenty pro bouts.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Fight Location: The O2, the capital Date: Saturday, October 25
Live Updates: Follow real-time updates and listen via the BBC Sport website and app starting at 8:30 PM BST prior to moving to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
The New Zealand fighter registered approximately 20lb above compared to the British boxer as each heavyweights cut confident figures - although in opposing styles - ahead of Saturday's main event in London.
Kiwi Joseph Parker will put his WBO 'interim' belt and shot to compete for the undisputed crown at stake against the undefeated Wardley at the London venue.
Unified top heavyweight the champion has indicated his plan to protect his championship titles versus the victor.
"It all comes down to this. It represents all," remarked a focused but focused Wardley, thirty, at the Friday pre-fight ritual.
Wardley - who holds the WBA 'interim' belt - registered at 17st 5lb, in line with his recent bouts.
"This fight leading up to the big one. All the work is completed. Training is completed. All the hard work is accomplished. Now for some rest now. Huge occasion ahead," he continued.
The East London market in east London saw not just fresh produce on the weighing platform as the pair of heavyweights confronted each other for the last occasion before the bout.
Joseph Parker gave a wink at the camera and bobbed along to the beat.
As he flexed his muscles, he appeared imposing and powerful as he tipped the scales at 18st 10lb, only 5lb lighter than his career-heaviest.
This marks a far cry from the 16st 12lb iteration who surrendered his championship to AJ in 2018.
"We're weary, we're cautious, but I will to fight fire with fire and I intend to connect with him," Joseph Parker declared.
I have reached a higher plane and will dominate him - Parker
Wardley, wearing an football shirt, kept a straight face, nodded to the crowd, but seemed zoned in.
Although he is the lighter guy, Fabio Wardley has superb stopping ability. He staged a remarkable comeback facing Huni in last June, behind on the official tallies before finishing his foe in the 10th round although being outboxed for much of the contest.
"Parker, his camp and supporters will learn I am destined to be at the top of this heavyweight ranks," Fabio Wardley stated.
"All challengers has been the one pundits claim will overcome me. This is that fight. He is superior speed, too fast, vastly experienced. Yet I remain unbeaten so far, and no one will alter on fight night."
