Self-assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Less Compared to Substantial Joseph Parker
In-form Joseph Parker (on the left) is on a six-bout winning streak, and KO expert Fabio Wardley is undefeated in twenty pro bouts.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Venue: The O2, the capital Date: This Saturday, October 25
Broadcast Details: Tune in for real-time updates and live radio through BBC 5 Live Sports Extra and mobile application from half past eight UK time prior to moving to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
The New Zealand fighter weighed almost 20 pounds more than his opponent as the two heavyweights cut assured appearances - although in opposing styles - ahead of this weekend's headliner in the capital.
Kiwi Joseph Parker will put his interim WBO title and chance to challenge for the global championship at stake against the perfect Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Undisputed division king Usyk has made clear his intention to retain his four belts facing the successful fighter.
"It all comes down to this. This means the ultimate," said a focused but focused Fabio Wardley, 30, at Friday's weigh-in.
The British contender - possessing the WBA interim strap - came in at seventeen stone five pounds, in line with his previous matches.
"This is the one prior to the ultimate challenge. All preparation is done. Preparation is wrapped up. All the hard work is put in. Now for some relaxation now. Huge occasion tomorrow," he added.
The East London market in London's east end witnessed not just market goods on the scales as the two heavyweights confronted each other for the final time prior to the bout.
Joseph Parker gave a wink at the lenses and swayed along to the tunes.
Flexing his strength, he appeared imposing and powerful as he weighed in at eighteen stone ten pounds, just a handful of pounds below than his career-heaviest.
It is a significant difference from the 107 kg version who lost his world title to Joshua in 2018.
"We're weary, we are careful, but I will to fight fire with fire and I'm going to get him," Joseph Parker declared.
I'm at a different level and will smash him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, sporting an Ipswich top, kept a focused look, nodded to the audience, but appeared concentrated.
Although he is the less heavy fighter, Wardley has superb knockout power. He delivered a thrilling turnaround facing Huni in last June, behind on the scorecards before stopping his opponent in the final round although being outboxed for much of the fight.
"His opponent, his team and boxing fans are about to discover I am destined to be at the top of this weight class," Fabio Wardley stated.
"Every opponent has been the fighter pundits predict will defeat me. Here we are again. His attributes include too quick, too fast, too experienced. Yet I remain unbeaten to date, and no challenge will change on fight night."
