Assured Fabio Wardley Weighs Twenty Pounds Less Below Compared to Substantial Joseph Parker
Winning-streak Joseph Parker (left) has a six-match winning streak, while stoppage specialist Wardley remains unbeaten in twenty professional fights.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Location: O2 Arena, London Fight Night: Saturday, the 25th of October
Live Updates: Catch round-by-round coverage and audio coverage on BBC 5 Live Sports Extra and app from 20:30 BST prior to moving to BBC 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
Parker weighed nearly 20lb more against Fabio Wardley as both big men cut confident poses - although in different manners - ahead of the Saturday headliner in London.
Kiwi Parker places his WBO 'interim' belt and opportunity to fight for the global championship up for grabs versus the perfect Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Unified heavyweight champion the champion has made clear his aim to defend his championship titles facing the successful fighter.
"This is it. It represents all," said a focused but zoned-in Fabio Wardley, thirty, at Friday's pre-fight ritual.
Wardley - the holder of the WBA 'interim' belt - weighed in at 17st 5lb, in line with his latest fights.
"This is the one leading up to the one. Every effort is finished. Preparation is completed. The grueling sessions is put in. Let's get some relaxation now. Major event tomorrow," he continued.
Spitalfields Market in London's east end hosted more than market goods on the measure as the two boxers faced off for the ultimate face-off ahead of the bout.
Joseph Parker flashed a wink at the photographers and swayed along to the music.
As he flexed his strength, he seemed powerful and powerful as he registered at 18st 10lb, only 5lb lighter than his career-heaviest.
This marks a major change from the 16st 12lb version who was defeated his belt to Anthony Joshua in 2018.
"We are alert, we're cautious, but I'm going to respond with equal force and I'm going to get him," Parker declared.
I operate on a different level and will overpower him - Parker
Wardley, wearing an Ipswich top, held a focused look, nodded to the crowd, but looked zoned in.
Despite being the less heavy fighter, Wardley has outstanding KO strength. He delivered a thrilling recovery facing his opponent in the summer, down on the judges' cards then defeating his rival in the final round although being outclassed for the majority of the contest.
"Joseph Parker, his camp and the sport's followers will learn I am meant to be at the summit of this division," Wardley stated.
"Each rival has been the boxer pundits say will overcome me. Here we are again. He is exceptional pace, too fast, too experienced. But I remain unbeaten to date, and no one will shift on fight night."
