Self-assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Lighter Than Bulky Joseph Parker
In-form Joseph Parker (left) has a six-bout victory run, whereas KO expert Wardley remains unbeaten in 20 career contests.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Location: London's O2 Arena, London Date: Weekend, October 25
Broadcast Details: Tune in for round-by-round coverage and audio coverage through the BBC Sport website and mobile application from half past eight UK time then transitioning to national radio from 10:00 PM.
Parker weighed approximately twenty pounds above against Fabio Wardley as the two big men cut self-assured figures - although in contrasting ways - ahead of this weekend's headliner in the UK.
Kiwi Joseph Parker will put his interim WBO title and chance to compete for the global championship up for grabs against the unbeaten Wardley at the London venue.
Undisputed top heavyweight the champion has indicated his intention to retain his four belts against the victor.
"This is the moment. It signifies the ultimate," said a determined but zoned-in Fabio Wardley, 30, at the Friday scale ceremony.
Wardley - the holder of the interim WBA title - weighed in at 110 kg, matching his latest fights.
"This contest prior to the ultimate challenge. All the work is done. Camp is ticked off. All the hard work is put in. Now for some rest now. Major event tomorrow," he added.
Spitalfields Market in the capital's east saw not just market goods on the measure as the both fighters squared up for the ultimate face-off before the main event.
Parker winked at the camera and swayed along to the beat.
Flexing his strength, he seemed imposing and strong as he tipped the scales at eighteen stone ten pounds, merely 5lb lighter than his peak weight.
This marks a significant difference from the sixteen stone twelve pound iteration who lost his championship to AJ in 2018.
"We're weary, we are wary, but I'm going to fight fire with fire and I intend to connect with him," Joseph Parker said.
I have reached a higher plane and will dominate him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, wearing an Ipswich top, kept a straight face, acknowledged the audience, but looked concentrated.
Despite being the less heavy fighter, Wardley has exceptional knockout power. He produced a thrilling comeback versus Justis Huni in last June, trailing on the judges' cards before stopping his rival in the tenth round although being outmaneuvered for the majority of the bout.
"Joseph Parker, his team and the sport's followers are about to discover I am meant to be at the summit of this division," Wardley affirmed.
"Every opponent has been the one pundits predict will overcome me. This is that fight. He's too quick, swift, vastly experienced. But I remain unbeaten so far, and no one will shift in the ring."
