Assured Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Below Than Bulky Joseph Parker
In-form Joseph Parker (on the left) is on a six-fight unbeaten stretch, and knockout artist Wardley is undefeated in 20 professional fights.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Location: O2 Arena, the capital Fight Night: Weekend, 25 October
Coverage: Tune in for real-time updates and listen through BBC 5 Live Sports Extra and mobile application from half past eight UK time then transitioning to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10 PM BST.
The New Zealand fighter stepped onto the scales almost 20 pounds above against Fabio Wardley as both top fighters displayed assured poses - although in opposing styles - leading up to Saturday's main event in the UK.
New Zealand's Parker places his WBO interim championship and chance to challenge for the global championship on the line against the unbeaten Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Unified top heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk has indicated his intention to defend his championship titles versus the winner.
"It all comes down to this. It represents the ultimate," said a serious but zoned-in Wardley, 30, at yesterday's weigh-in.
The British contender - possessing the WBA 'interim' belt - weighed in at 17st 5lb, consistent with his previous matches.
"This fight leading up to the big one. Every effort is completed. Camp is wrapped up. The grueling sessions is put in. Now for some rest now. Major event tomorrow," he continued.
The East London market in the capital's east hosted beyond fresh produce on the measure as the pair of boxers faced off for the final time before fight night.
Parker winked at the lenses and bobbed along to the tunes.
Showing off his physique, he seemed hefty and powerful as he registered at 119 kg, merely 5lb lighter than his peak weight.
It is a major change from the 16st 12lb iteration who lost his belt to Joshua in the year 2018.
"We are cautious, we are careful, but I plan to respond with equal force and I will reach him," Joseph Parker declared.
I operate on a superior tier and will overpower him - Parker
Wardley, sporting an football shirt, maintained a serious expression, greeted the fans, but seemed zoned in.
Despite being the lighter guy, Fabio Wardley has superb KO strength. He produced a dramatic recovery against Justis Huni in the summer, behind on the judges' cards prior to stopping his foe in the final round although being outmaneuvered for the majority of the contest.
"Joseph Parker, his corner and the sport's followers are about to discover I am destined to be at the peak of this division," Wardley affirmed.
"Each rival has been the one experts predict will beat me. Here we are again. He's too quick, rapid, too experienced. But I remain unbeaten so far, and no challenge will shift tomorrow night."