Assured Wardley Weighs 20lb Less Than Heavier Parker
On-a-roll Parker (left) is on a six-fight winning streak, and knockout specialist Wardley has a perfect record in 20 professional fights.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Venue: London's O2 Arena, the capital Event Date: Saturday, October 25
Broadcast Details: Catch round-by-round coverage and listen through BBC 5 Live Sports Extra and app from 20:30 BST prior to moving to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
The New Zealand fighter registered approximately 20lb above against the British boxer as both big men displayed assured figures - although in different ways - leading up to the Saturday feature bout in London.
New Zealand's Joseph Parker places his WBO interim championship and opportunity to compete for the global championship on the line facing the perfect Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has signalled his intention to protect his four belts against the victor.
"This is it. It represents everything," stated a serious but focused Wardley, aged 30, at Friday's pre-fight ritual.
The Ipswich fighter - who holds the WBA interim strap - weighed in at 17st 5lb, in line with his recent bouts.
"This fight before the big one. Every effort is finished. Camp is ticked off. The intense training is put in. Now for some downtime now. Huge occasion ahead," he continued.
The East London market in east London witnessed beyond market goods on the scales as the pair of fighters faced off for the last occasion ahead of the main event.
Joseph Parker gave a wink at the photographers and moved along to the music.
As he flexed his muscles, he looked imposing and strong as he registered at 119 kg, merely a handful of pounds lighter than his heaviest ever.
This marks a far cry from the 16st 12lb iteration who was defeated his championship to Anthony Joshua in 2018.
"We're weary, we are careful, but I plan to match him blow for blow and I'm going to get him," Joseph Parker said.
I'm at a different level and will dominate him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, wearing an Ipswich Town jersey, maintained a straight face, nodded to the fans, but looked concentrated.
Despite being the lighter guy, Wardley has exceptional knockout power. He produced a remarkable comeback facing Huni in last June, trailing on the judges' cards then defeating his foe in the 10th round although being outclassed for the majority of the contest.
"Joseph Parker, his team and the sport's followers will learn I belong to be at the top of this division," Wardley said.
"Each rival has been the fighter critics claim will defeat me. Here we are again. He is too quick, rapid, highly seasoned. However I remain unbeaten yet, and no challenge will change tomorrow night."
