Self-assured Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Lighter Compared to Substantial Parker
On-a-roll Joseph Parker (on the left) is on a six-bout winning streak, and stoppage artist Fabio Wardley is undefeated in 20 pro bouts.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Location: The O2, London Date: This Saturday, October 25
Broadcast Details: Tune in for live text commentary and live radio via BBC 5 Live Sports Extra and mobile application starting at half past eight UK time then transitioning to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
Parker registered approximately 20lb above compared to Fabio Wardley as both top fighters presented assured poses - even if in different styles - leading up to this weekend's headliner in London.
Kiwi Parker places his WBO interim championship and chance to fight for the undisputed crown at stake versus the undefeated Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Unified top heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk has signalled his plan to protect his world titles versus the winner.
"This is it. It represents all," stated a determined but zoned-in Wardley, thirty, at the Friday pre-fight ritual.
The Ipswich fighter - who holds the interim WBA title - came in at seventeen stone five pounds, matching his latest fights.
"This is the one leading up to the one. All preparation is finished. Training is ticked off. The intense training is put in. Now for some downtime now. Big night ahead," he stated further.
Spitalfields Market in London's east end hosted beyond fresh produce on the scales as the both fighters faced off for the final time before fight night.
Parker gave a wink at the camera and moved along to the music.
Flexing his strength, he looked imposing and strong as he tipped the scales at 119 kg, merely a handful of pounds less than his career-heaviest.
This marks a significant difference from the 107 kg fighter who surrendered his belt to AJ in 2018.
"We are alert, we're cautious, but I plan to respond with equal force and I intend to connect with him," Parker declared.
I operate on a superior tier and will smash him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, sporting an Ipswich top, maintained a straight face, acknowledged the audience, but seemed zoned in.
Despite being the lighter guy, Wardley has outstanding knockout power. He staged a dramatic recovery facing his opponent in June, behind on the judges' cards then defeating his opponent in the tenth round even though being outclassed for the majority of the bout.
"Joseph Parker, his team and the sport's followers are about to discover I am meant to be at the top of this heavyweight ranks," Fabio Wardley said.
"Each rival has been the fighter experts predict will defeat me. This is the one. He's superior speed, too fast, vastly experienced. Yet I remain unbeaten yet, and nothing will alter in the ring."
