Self-assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Below Than Bulky Joseph Parker
On-a-roll Parker (left) boasts a six-match unbeaten stretch, and KO artist Fabio Wardley has a perfect record in 20 pro bouts.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Location: London's O2 Arena, London Date: Saturday, 25 October
Broadcast Details: Tune in for live text commentary and audio coverage through the BBC Sport website plus digital platforms from 8:30 PM BST prior to moving to BBC 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
Parker stepped onto the scales nearly 20 pounds above against the British boxer as both big men presented confident figures - albeit in contrasting styles - for this weekend's main event in the capital.
Kiwi Parker will put his WBO interim championship and shot to challenge for the global championship at stake against the unbeaten Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Reigning top heavyweight the champion has made clear his aim to protect his championship titles facing the winner.
"This is the moment. It signifies everything," remarked a focused but concentrated Wardley, thirty, at the Friday weigh-in.
The British contender - possessing the WBA interim strap - came in at 110 kg, matching his previous matches.
"This contest leading up to the one. All the work is done. Camp is completed. The grueling sessions is done. Time for some downtime now. Huge occasion coming up," he continued.
Spitalfields Market in the capital's east saw not just fresh produce on the weighing platform as the two heavyweights confronted each other for the final time before the bout.
Parker gave a wink at the photographers and moved along to the tunes.
As he flexed his physique, he looked powerful and powerful as he tipped the scales at 119 kg, just five pounds below than his peak weight.
This marks a far cry from the 16st 12lb version who lost his world title to Anthony Joshua in 2018.
"We are alert, we're cautious, but I will to fight fire with fire and I intend to connect with him," Parker said.
I'm at a different level and will smash him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, dressed in an football shirt, maintained a straight face, nodded to the crowd, but appeared zoned in.
Although he is the smaller man, Fabio Wardley has outstanding knockout power. He produced a thrilling comeback versus Huni in June, trailing on the official tallies then defeating his foe in the tenth round despite being outmaneuvered for the majority of the contest.
"Parker, his team and boxing fans will find out I am destined to be at the summit of this division," Fabio Wardley stated.
"Each rival has been the fighter experts claim will beat me. This is that fight. He is exceptional pace, rapid, highly seasoned. However I remain unbeaten to date, and no challenge will change in the ring."
