Confident Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Less Lighter Compared to Bulky Joseph Parker
On-a-roll Joseph Parker (left) is on a six-bout unbeaten stretch, and stoppage artist Fabio Wardley is undefeated in twenty pro bouts.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Venue: O2 Arena, the capital Event Date: This Saturday, October 25
Coverage: Catch live text commentary and live radio on the BBC Sport website and mobile application starting at 8:30 PM BST then transitioning to national radio from 10 PM BST.
The New Zealand fighter stepped onto the scales almost 20lb above than Fabio Wardley as the two big men displayed assured figures - although in contrasting ways - for this weekend's feature bout in London.
Kiwi Joseph Parker will put his WBO interim championship and chance to challenge for the undisputed crown at stake facing the perfect Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Reigning division king Usyk has indicated his aim to protect his championship titles against the victor.
"This is it. It represents everything," remarked a serious but concentrated Wardley, thirty, at yesterday's pre-fight ritual.
The Ipswich fighter - who holds the interim WBA title - weighed in at 17st 5lb, consistent with his recent bouts.
"This contest leading up to the one. All the work is finished. Training is completed. The intense training is done. Let's get some rest now. Major event tomorrow," he continued.
The East London market in the capital's east saw not just fresh produce on the measure as the two boxers confronted each other for the ultimate face-off before the main event.
Joseph Parker winked at the photographers and bobbed along to the beat.
Flexing his strength, he seemed powerful and forceful as he weighed in at 18st 10lb, just five pounds less than his peak weight.
This marks a far cry from the sixteen stone twelve pound version who was defeated his belt to Anthony Joshua in 2018.
"We are cautious, we are careful, but I'm going to fight fire with fire and I intend to connect with him," Parker said.
I have reached a different level and will smash him - Parker
Fabio Wardley, wearing an Ipswich top, maintained a straight face, nodded to the fans, but looked concentrated.
He may be the smaller man, Fabio Wardley has superb KO strength. He staged a remarkable comeback versus Huni in the summer, behind on the scorecards prior to finishing his rival in the 10th round although being outmaneuvered for the majority of the fight.
"Parker, his camp and the sport's followers will learn I am destined to be at the peak of this heavyweight ranks," Wardley said.
"All challengers has been the boxer experts claim will beat me. This is the one. He's superior speed, swift, highly seasoned. However I haven't been beaten so far, and no one will alter on fight night."
