Assured Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Below Compared to Bulky Joseph Parker
Winning-streak Parker (on the left) is on a six-fight victory run, and KO artist Fabio Wardley has a perfect record in 20 professional fights.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Venue: The O2, London Event Date: Saturday, 25 October
Broadcast Details: Tune in for round-by-round coverage and listen through BBC Sounds and mobile application from 20:30 BST then transitioning to BBC Radio 5 Live from 22:00.
The New Zealand fighter stepped onto the scales almost twenty pounds above against his opponent as the two heavyweights presented assured figures - even if in different ways - leading up to the Saturday main event in the capital.
Kiwi Joseph Parker places his WBO 'interim' belt and chance to challenge for the global championship at stake versus the perfect Fabio Wardley at the London venue.
Undisputed top heavyweight Usyk has indicated his intention to retain his championship titles facing the winner.
"This is the moment. It represents everything," remarked a determined but concentrated Fabio Wardley, 30, at Friday's scale ceremony.
The Ipswich fighter - the holder of the WBA interim strap - registered at 110 kg, matching his recent bouts.
"This contest before the ultimate challenge. All the work is done. Training is completed. The grueling sessions is put in. Let's get some downtime now. Major event ahead," he added.
Spitalfields Market in London's east end saw more than fresh produce on the measure as the both fighters faced off for the last occasion prior to fight night.
Parker winked at the photographers and moved along to the tunes.
Showing off his strength, he appeared hefty and strong as he registered at 18st 10lb, just five pounds lighter than his career-heaviest.
This represents a major change from the sixteen stone twelve pound version who surrendered his belt to AJ in 2018.
"We're weary, we are careful, but I plan to respond with equal force and I intend to connect with him," Joseph Parker said.
I operate on a superior tier and will dominate him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, dressed in an Ipswich top, held a serious expression, nodded to the crowd, but looked concentrated.
Despite being the lighter guy, Wardley has exceptional KO strength. He delivered a remarkable recovery facing his opponent in last June, trailing on the scorecards then finishing his foe in the final round despite being outmaneuvered for the majority of the fight.
"Joseph Parker, his corner and supporters are about to discover I am destined to be at the summit of this division," Wardley stated.
"Every opponent has been the boxer critics say will beat me. Here we are again. His attributes include exceptional pace, swift, too experienced. Yet My record is perfect yet, and no challenge will change tomorrow night."
