Self-assured Wardley Weighs 20lb Below Compared to Bulky Parker
In-form Parker (left) has a six-bout unbeaten stretch, whereas knockout artist Fabio Wardley remains unbeaten in twenty professional fights.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Location: London's O2 Arena, the capital Date: Saturday, the 25th of October
Broadcast Details: Catch round-by-round coverage and listen on the BBC Sport website plus digital platforms from 8:30 PM BST prior to moving to BBC 5 Live from 10 PM BST.
Joseph Parker registered almost 20 pounds more compared to the British boxer as both heavyweights presented assured figures - even if in opposing styles - ahead of Saturday's main event in London.
Kiwi Parker will put his WBO 'interim' belt and shot to challenge for the undisputed crown up for grabs against the perfect Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Undisputed division king Usyk has made clear his aim to defend his four belts versus the victor.
"This is the moment. It represents all," remarked a focused but focused Fabio Wardley, aged 30, at the Friday pre-fight ritual.
Wardley - the holder of the interim WBA title - came in at seventeen stone five pounds, in line with his latest fights.
"This fight before the ultimate challenge. All the work is finished. Training is ticked off. The intense training is accomplished. Let's get some downtime now. Huge occasion ahead," he continued.
Spitalfields Market in London's east end hosted beyond typical items on the weighing platform as the both fighters faced off for the last occasion ahead of the bout.
Parker flashed a wink at the photographers and swayed along to the tunes.
Flexing his muscles, he appeared powerful and strong as he weighed in at 119 kg, merely a handful of pounds lighter than his career-heaviest.
It is a far cry from the 16st 12lb fighter who was defeated his belt to Anthony Joshua in the year 2018.
"We're weary, we are wary, but I plan to fight fire with fire and I'm going to get him," Parker said.
I'm at a different level and will smash him - Parker
Wardley, sporting an Ipswich Town jersey, held a focused look, acknowledged the crowd, but seemed zoned in.
Despite being the less heavy fighter, Fabio Wardley has outstanding stopping ability. He produced a thrilling turnaround versus Justis Huni in last June, trailing on the scorecards then defeating his rival in the tenth round although being outmaneuvered for the majority of the fight.
"Parker, his team and boxing fans will learn I belong to be at the top of this division," Fabio Wardley stated.
"Every opponent has been the one pundits claim will overcome me. This is that fight. He is exceptional pace, rapid, too experienced. However I haven't been beaten so far, and no challenge will alter on fight night."
