Assured Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Below Compared to Heavier Joseph Parker
Winning-streak Joseph Parker (on the left) has a six-match unbeaten stretch, while stoppage expert Wardley has a perfect record in 20 career contests.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Venue: O2 Arena, London Date: Weekend, October 25
Live Updates: Follow live text commentary and listen through BBC Sounds and app from 20:30 BST prior to moving to BBC Radio 5 Live from 22:00.
Joseph Parker weighed almost 20 pounds above against the British boxer as both top fighters cut confident figures - even if in different manners - leading up to the Saturday headliner in the capital.
Kiwi Joseph Parker places his interim WBO title and shot to compete for the undisputed crown on the line versus the undefeated Fabio Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Undisputed heavyweight champion Usyk has indicated his intention to retain his four belts versus the successful fighter.
"This is the moment. This means everything," stated a focused but concentrated Wardley, aged 30, at yesterday's weigh-in.
Wardley - the holder of the WBA 'interim' belt - came in at 17st 5lb, consistent with his latest fights.
"This contest prior to the one. All the work is completed. Training is wrapped up. The grueling sessions is accomplished. Now for some relaxation now. Big night coming up," he stated further.
The historic venue in the capital's east hosted not just fresh produce on the scales as the two heavyweights confronted each other for the last occasion prior to fight night.
Joseph Parker gave a wink at the lenses and swayed along to the music.
Showing off his physique, he appeared powerful and powerful as he registered at eighteen stone ten pounds, only five pounds below than his heaviest ever.
This marks a major change from the 16st 12lb fighter who surrendered his world title to AJ in 2018.
"We're weary, we are wary, but I plan to fight fire with fire and I intend to connect with him," Parker declared.
I'm at a higher plane and will smash him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, dressed in an football shirt, kept a serious expression, nodded to the audience, but looked concentrated.
Despite being the lighter guy, Fabio Wardley has exceptional knockout power. He delivered a dramatic recovery versus Justis Huni in the summer, behind on the judges' cards before stopping his foe in the 10th round despite being outmaneuvered for much of the bout.
"Joseph Parker, his corner and the sport's followers will learn I am destined to be at the peak of this division," Wardley affirmed.
"Every opponent has been the one critics say will overcome me. This is that fight. He is superior speed, rapid, too experienced. But I haven't been beaten yet, and no challenge will change in the ring."
