Confident Wardley Weighs Twenty Pounds Less Less Than Bulky Joseph Parker
In-form Parker (on the left) is on a six-fight victory run, while knockout specialist Wardley is undefeated in twenty pro bouts.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Venue: The O2, the capital Event Date: Weekend, October 25
Live Updates: Tune in for live text commentary and listen on BBC 5 Live Sports Extra and app starting at 20:30 BST prior to moving to BBC Radio 5 Live from 22:00.
Parker stepped onto the scales nearly 20lb more compared to Fabio Wardley as the two top fighters cut self-assured appearances - even if in different manners - ahead of the Saturday headliner in London.
Kiwi Joseph Parker will put his interim WBO title and chance to fight for the global championship up for grabs facing the perfect Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Reigning top heavyweight the champion has made clear his aim to retain his world titles facing the successful fighter.
"It all comes down to this. This means all," stated a focused but zoned-in Wardley, 30, at Friday's scale ceremony.
Wardley - the holder of the WBA 'interim' belt - came in at 110 kg, matching his previous matches.
"This contest prior to the ultimate challenge. Every effort is completed. Training is completed. The intense training is accomplished. Time for some downtime now. Big night coming up," he added.
The historic venue in the capital's east witnessed beyond typical items on the weighing platform as the two heavyweights squared up for the last occasion prior to fight night.
Joseph Parker flashed a wink at the lenses and swayed along to the tunes.
As he flexed his muscles, he seemed powerful and strong as he weighed in at 18st 10lb, just 5lb less than his career-heaviest.
It is a far cry from the 16st 12lb version who was defeated his championship to Joshua in the year 2018.
"We are cautious, we are wary, but I will to fight fire with fire and I intend to connect with him," Parker stated.
I'm at a higher plane and will overpower him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, sporting an football shirt, kept a serious expression, greeted the audience, but seemed concentrated.
Despite being the smaller man, Wardley has exceptional stopping ability. He staged a dramatic turnaround versus his opponent in June, behind on the official tallies then finishing his rival in the final round despite being outclassed for much of the fight.
"His opponent, his team and the sport's followers will learn I am destined to be at the top of this weight class," Wardley affirmed.
"Each rival has been the fighter critics claim will overcome me. This is the one. He's superior speed, too fast, vastly experienced. But I remain unbeaten to date, and nothing will alter on fight night."
