Self-assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Lighter Compared to Bulky Joseph Parker
Winning-streak Joseph Parker (left) boasts a six-match victory run, while KO specialist Fabio Wardley is undefeated in 20 professional fights.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Location: London's O2 Arena, London Date: Weekend, October 25
Coverage: Catch round-by-round coverage and live radio on BBC 5 Live Sports Extra and app from 8:30 PM BST before switching to national radio from 10 PM BST.
Joseph Parker weighed approximately 20lb more against Fabio Wardley as the two top fighters presented confident poses - even if in contrasting styles - leading up to this weekend's main event in the capital.
From New Zealand Joseph Parker places his WBO interim championship and chance to challenge for the world title at stake facing the perfect Fabio Wardley at the London venue.
Undisputed heavyweight champion Usyk has signalled his aim to protect his world titles versus the winner.
"This is the moment. It represents all," remarked a focused but concentrated Fabio Wardley, aged 30, at yesterday's pre-fight ritual.
The British contender - the holder of the interim WBA title - weighed in at seventeen stone five pounds, matching his recent bouts.
"This is the one before the one. Every effort is finished. Training is wrapped up. All the hard work is put in. Now for some downtime now. Huge occasion ahead," he stated further.
The historic venue in London's east end hosted not just market goods on the scales as the pair of boxers confronted each other for the final time prior to the main event.
Joseph Parker gave a wink at the photographers and swayed along to the beat.
Flexing his physique, he seemed imposing and strong as he registered at 119 kg, only five pounds less than his career-heaviest.
This represents a major change from the 107 kg iteration who was defeated his world title to Joshua in the year 2018.
"We're weary, we are wary, but I plan to match him blow for blow and I'm going to get him," Parker declared.
I'm at a different level and will smash him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, sporting an Ipswich Town jersey, maintained a serious expression, nodded to the crowd, but appeared concentrated.
Although he is the lighter guy, Fabio Wardley has superb stopping ability. He staged a dramatic turnaround versus Huni in June, trailing on the judges' cards then finishing his opponent in the final round despite being outboxed for much of the contest.
"Parker, his camp and boxing fans are about to discover I am destined to be at the summit of this division," Fabio Wardley said.
"All challengers has been the boxer pundits predict will beat me. This is that fight. He's superior speed, swift, highly seasoned. However I haven't been beaten to date, and no challenge will change on fight night."
