Confident Wardley Weighs Twenty Pounds Less Lighter Than Heavier Joseph Parker
Winning-streak Parker (left) boasts a six-bout victory run, while knockout artist Fabio Wardley remains unbeaten in twenty professional fights.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Location: London's O2 Arena, the capital Date: Saturday, October 25
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Parker stepped onto the scales nearly twenty pounds heavier compared to his opponent as the two heavyweights displayed assured appearances - although in contrasting styles - ahead of Saturday's headliner in the UK.
From New Zealand Parker is risking his WBO 'interim' belt and shot to compete for the global championship up for grabs against the perfect Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has indicated his plan to defend his championship titles against the victor.
"This is the moment. It represents the ultimate," said a focused but zoned-in Wardley, 30, at the Friday scale ceremony.
The British contender - who holds the interim WBA title - came in at 17st 5lb, matching his latest fights.
"This contest before the one. All the work is completed. Preparation is wrapped up. The grueling sessions is accomplished. Let's get some downtime now. Huge occasion ahead," he stated further.
The historic venue in the capital's east witnessed not just market goods on the weighing platform as the two boxers faced off for the ultimate face-off before fight night.
Parker gave a wink at the lenses and moved along to the tunes.
As he flexed his muscles, he looked powerful and forceful as he registered at eighteen stone ten pounds, only a handful of pounds below than his peak weight.
This marks a significant difference from the 107 kg iteration who was defeated his world title to Joshua in 2018.
"We are cautious, we're cautious, but I will to match him blow for blow and I will reach him," Parker declared.
I'm at a different level and will overpower him - Parker
Wardley, wearing an football shirt, maintained a serious expression, acknowledged the fans, but appeared focused.
Despite being the smaller man, Wardley has exceptional knockout power. He staged a thrilling recovery versus Justis Huni in June, behind on the scorecards then finishing his opponent in the 10th round despite being outboxed for much of the contest.
"Parker, his team and supporters will find out I belong to be at the peak of this heavyweight ranks," Wardley stated.
"All challengers has been the fighter experts predict will defeat me. This is that fight. His attributes include exceptional pace, too fast, vastly experienced. However I remain unbeaten yet, and no challenge will shift in the ring."
