Assured Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Below Compared to Substantial Joseph Parker
In-form Joseph Parker (left) is on a six-bout winning streak, while knockout specialist Fabio Wardley is undefeated in 20 professional fights.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Fight Location: The O2, London Event Date: This Saturday, the 25th of October
Live Updates: Tune in for round-by-round coverage and audio coverage through the BBC Sport website and mobile application starting at 20:30 BST prior to moving to national radio from 10:00 PM.
The New Zealand fighter registered approximately 20 pounds more against the British boxer as the two heavyweights presented assured poses - although in different manners - leading up to Saturday's feature bout in the capital.
Kiwi Joseph Parker places his WBO 'interim' belt and chance to fight for the world title on the line against the undefeated Fabio Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Reigning heavyweight champion Usyk has indicated his aim to defend his world titles facing the successful fighter.
"This is the moment. This means all," remarked a determined but concentrated Fabio Wardley, thirty, at the Friday scale ceremony.
The Ipswich fighter - the holder of the WBA interim strap - came in at 110 kg, in line with his latest fights.
"This contest leading up to the big one. Every effort is completed. Camp is completed. All the hard work is put in. Now for some rest now. Major event ahead," he added.
Spitalfields Market in the capital's east hosted beyond fresh produce on the measure as the pair of boxers faced off for the ultimate face-off before fight night.
Joseph Parker flashed a wink at the camera and moved along to the music.
Flexing his physique, he looked powerful and forceful as he tipped the scales at 119 kg, only five pounds less than his career-heaviest.
This marks a far cry from the 16st 12lb fighter who surrendered his championship to AJ in the year 2018.
"We are alert, we're cautious, but I'm going to fight fire with fire and I will reach him," Joseph Parker stated.
I'm at a different level and will overpower him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, dressed in an football shirt, maintained a focused look, greeted the crowd, but appeared focused.
Despite being the lighter guy, Fabio Wardley has superb KO strength. He staged a dramatic turnaround against Huni in last June, behind on the scorecards prior to finishing his opponent in the tenth round even though being outmaneuvered for much of the contest.
"Parker, his team and supporters are about to discover I belong to be at the peak of this heavyweight ranks," Wardley stated.
"Every opponent has been the boxer critics claim will defeat me. This is that fight. His attributes include superior speed, too fast, vastly experienced. But I haven't been beaten yet, and no one will shift on fight night."
