Confident Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Less Than Substantial Joseph Parker
In-form Joseph Parker (on the left) boasts a six-match unbeaten stretch, and stoppage expert Fabio Wardley is undefeated in twenty professional fights.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Location: O2 Arena, the capital Event Date: This Saturday, 25 October
Broadcast Details: Tune in for round-by-round coverage and audio coverage on BBC 5 Live Sports Extra plus digital platforms from half past eight UK time then transitioning to BBC 5 Live from 22:00.
Joseph Parker registered almost 20 pounds more than the British boxer as the two heavyweights cut self-assured poses - although in opposing manners - leading up to Saturday's feature bout in the UK.
New Zealand's Parker will put his WBO interim championship and shot to compete for the global championship at stake against the unbeaten Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Undisputed division king the champion has made clear his aim to defend his world titles against the victor.
"It all comes down to this. It signifies everything," stated a determined but concentrated Fabio Wardley, thirty, at yesterday's weigh-in.
The British contender - who holds the WBA 'interim' belt - registered at 110 kg, matching his recent bouts.
"This is the one leading up to the one. Every effort is completed. Camp is ticked off. All the hard work is accomplished. Now for some relaxation now. Major event ahead," he stated further.
The historic venue in London's east end saw beyond fresh produce on the scales as the pair of fighters squared up for the ultimate face-off before the bout.
Parker winked at the camera and swayed along to the beat.
Showing off his strength, he seemed imposing and strong as he tipped the scales at 119 kg, merely a handful of pounds lighter than his heaviest ever.
This marks a significant difference from the sixteen stone twelve pound fighter who was defeated his championship to Joshua in 2018.
"We are alert, we are careful, but I plan to fight fire with fire and I'm going to get him," Parker said.
I have reached a higher plane and will dominate him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, dressed in an Ipswich top, held a serious expression, nodded to the fans, but looked concentrated.
He may be the less heavy fighter, Wardley has exceptional KO strength. He staged a remarkable comeback versus Justis Huni in June, trailing on the judges' cards then stopping his foe in the final round even though being outboxed for the majority of the bout.
"Joseph Parker, his camp and boxing fans will find out I am destined to be at the top of this weight class," Fabio Wardley affirmed.
"All challengers has been the one pundits claim will overcome me. Here we are again. He is superior speed, too fast, too experienced. But My record is perfect so far, and nothing will alter tomorrow night."