Assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Less Less Compared to Heavier Parker
Winning-streak Parker (left) is on a six-fight victory run, while knockout expert Wardley is undefeated in 20 career contests.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Fight Location: London's O2 Arena, the capital Event Date: Weekend, 25 October
Broadcast Details: Catch live text commentary and audio coverage on the BBC Sport website plus digital platforms starting at half past eight UK time then transitioning to national radio from 22:00.
Parker weighed nearly 20lb more compared to Fabio Wardley as the two top fighters cut self-assured figures - albeit in different ways - for this weekend's feature bout in London.
From New Zealand Joseph Parker is risking his WBO interim championship and shot to compete for the world title on the line versus the perfect Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Reigning division king the champion has indicated his aim to protect his four belts against the victor.
"This is the moment. It represents all," stated a determined but concentrated Wardley, aged 30, at the Friday pre-fight ritual.
The Ipswich fighter - the holder of the WBA 'interim' belt - registered at 110 kg, consistent with his latest fights.
"This contest leading up to the big one. Every effort is completed. Camp is wrapped up. The intense training is done. Time for some rest now. Huge occasion ahead," he continued.
The historic venue in London's east end saw not just fresh produce on the weighing platform as the pair of boxers faced off for the last occasion prior to the bout.
Joseph Parker flashed a wink at the lenses and swayed along to the tunes.
Flexing his physique, he appeared imposing and forceful as he weighed in at 18st 10lb, only 5lb below than his career-heaviest.
This marks a major change from the sixteen stone twelve pound iteration who surrendered his championship to Anthony Joshua in 2018.
"We are alert, 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 different level and will smash him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, dressed in an Ipswich Town jersey, maintained a focused look, acknowledged the crowd, but appeared zoned in.
Although he is the lighter guy, Fabio Wardley has exceptional stopping ability. He delivered a remarkable recovery against Huni in the summer, behind on the judges' cards then stopping his rival in the tenth round despite being outmaneuvered for much of the contest.
"Joseph Parker, his team and supporters are about to discover I am destined to be at the peak of this weight class," Wardley stated.
"Every opponent has been the one experts claim will defeat me. This is the one. He's too quick, swift, too experienced. Yet I haven't been beaten yet, and no one will shift on fight night."