Assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Less Lighter Than Substantial Parker
In-form Parker (on the left) boasts a six-bout winning streak, whereas stoppage specialist Fabio Wardley has a perfect record in 20 professional fights.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Fight Location: The O2, the capital Date: Saturday, the 25th of October
Broadcast Details: Follow real-time updates and audio coverage on BBC 5 Live Sports Extra and mobile application from half past eight UK time before switching to BBC 5 Live from 22:00.
Joseph Parker weighed almost 20lb heavier against the British boxer as each big men cut confident appearances - although in opposing styles - ahead of this weekend's main event in the UK.
From New Zealand Parker places his WBO 'interim' belt and opportunity to challenge for the global championship up for grabs versus the unbeaten Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Reigning top heavyweight Usyk has indicated his aim to retain his world titles facing the winner.
"This is the moment. This means all," stated a serious but concentrated Fabio Wardley, aged 30, at yesterday's scale ceremony.
The British contender - possessing the interim WBA title - registered at 17st 5lb, matching his recent bouts.
"This contest before the one. All the work is finished. Camp is completed. The grueling sessions is done. Let's get some rest now. Huge occasion coming up," he stated further.
The East London market in London's east end saw more than typical items on the weighing platform as the both heavyweights confronted each other for the final time prior to the main event.
Parker winked at the photographers and bobbed along to the beat.
Showing off his muscles, he appeared powerful and powerful as he tipped the scales at 119 kg, only five pounds lighter than his career-heaviest.
It is a far cry from the 16st 12lb fighter who surrendered his belt to AJ in 2018.
"We're weary, we are wary, but I plan to respond with equal force and I intend to connect with him," Joseph Parker declared.
I have reached a superior tier and will dominate him - Parker
Wardley, dressed in an football shirt, kept a straight face, acknowledged the crowd, but seemed concentrated.
He may be the less heavy fighter, Wardley has exceptional knockout power. He delivered a thrilling recovery versus Justis Huni in last June, down on the judges' cards prior to stopping his rival in the final round even though being outmaneuvered for much of the bout.
"Joseph Parker, his corner and boxing fans are about to discover I am destined to be at the peak of this division," Fabio Wardley affirmed.
"Each rival has been the fighter experts claim will beat me. This is that fight. He is too quick, swift, highly seasoned. However I haven't been beaten to date, and nothing will change in the ring."
