Confident Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Lighter Than Heavier Parker
Winning-streak Joseph Parker (on the left) boasts a six-bout winning streak, and stoppage expert Fabio Wardley has a perfect record in twenty pro bouts.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Venue: The O2, the capital Fight Night: Weekend, 25 October
Live Updates: Follow live text commentary and audio coverage through the BBC Sport website and app from half past eight UK time prior to moving to BBC 5 Live from 22:00.
The New Zealand fighter stepped onto the scales approximately twenty pounds heavier against Fabio Wardley as both top fighters cut confident figures - albeit in opposing ways - leading up to Saturday's main event in the capital.
New Zealand's Parker places his WBO interim championship and chance to fight for the global championship up for grabs versus the unbeaten Fabio Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has made clear his plan to protect his championship titles facing the winner.
"This is it. This means all," remarked a serious but focused Fabio Wardley, 30, at Friday's pre-fight ritual.
The British contender - possessing the WBA interim strap - weighed in at 17st 5lb, consistent with his previous matches.
"This is the one prior to the one. All preparation is completed. Preparation is ticked off. All the hard work is put in. Time for some relaxation now. Huge occasion coming up," he stated further.
The historic venue in east London witnessed beyond typical items on the scales as the two fighters faced off for the last occasion ahead of the main event.
Joseph Parker flashed a wink at the camera and bobbed along to the tunes.
Flexing his physique, he looked powerful and powerful as he tipped the scales at 119 kg, merely a handful of pounds less than his peak weight.
This represents a significant difference from the 107 kg fighter who surrendered his championship to Anthony Joshua in the year 2018.
"We are cautious, we're cautious, but I plan to match him blow for blow and I will reach him," Parker declared.
I have reached a higher plane and will overpower him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, wearing an football shirt, maintained a serious expression, acknowledged the crowd, but looked concentrated.
Although he is the smaller man, Wardley has outstanding KO strength. He delivered a remarkable turnaround versus Justis Huni in June, trailing on the judges' cards before finishing his rival in the tenth round even though being outboxed for much of the fight.
"His opponent, his camp and supporters are about to discover I am destined to be at the top of this heavyweight ranks," Wardley said.
"All challengers has been the boxer experts claim will beat me. Here we are again. He is superior speed, rapid, highly seasoned. But I haven't been beaten to date, and nothing will change on fight night."
