Confident Fabio Wardley Weighs Twenty Pounds Less Than Heavier Parker
In-form Parker (on the left) boasts a six-fight winning streak, whereas knockout expert Fabio Wardley has a perfect record in 20 professional fights.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Fight Location: London's O2 Arena, the capital Event Date: Weekend, 25 October
Coverage: Follow round-by-round coverage and live radio through BBC 5 Live Sports Extra and app starting at 8:30 PM BST before switching to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10:00 PM.
The New Zealand fighter weighed approximately 20lb above against his opponent as the two top fighters displayed self-assured figures - although in opposing ways - for this weekend's main event in the UK.
Kiwi Parker is risking his WBO interim championship and opportunity to challenge for the global championship up for grabs against the perfect Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Undisputed division king Usyk has signalled his aim to protect his four belts against the successful fighter.
"This is it. This means all," stated a focused but concentrated Fabio Wardley, 30, at yesterday's weigh-in.
The British contender - the holder of the interim WBA title - came in at seventeen stone five pounds, matching his previous matches.
"This fight before the one. All the work is completed. Camp is wrapped up. All the hard work is put in. Now for some rest now. Big night coming up," he added.
The East London market in London's east end saw more than typical items on the scales as the pair of heavyweights confronted each other for the final time ahead of the bout.
Parker gave a wink at the camera and moved along to the beat.
Flexing his muscles, he looked hefty and forceful as he registered at 119 kg, merely five pounds below than his heaviest ever.
This represents a major change from the 107 kg fighter who lost his championship to AJ in 2018.
"We are alert, we are wary, but I'm going to respond with equal force and I intend to connect with him," Parker said.
I'm at a different level and will overpower him - Parker
Wardley, dressed in an Ipswich Town jersey, maintained a serious expression, acknowledged the fans, but seemed zoned in.
Despite being the less heavy fighter, Wardley has exceptional stopping ability. He delivered a dramatic comeback against Justis Huni in last June, down on the scorecards then stopping his opponent in the 10th round although being outboxed for much of the fight.
"Joseph Parker, his team and the sport's followers will learn I am meant to be at the summit of this weight class," Wardley stated.
"All challengers has been the one experts predict will defeat me. Here we are again. He's exceptional pace, too fast, highly seasoned. However I haven't been beaten so far, and no challenge will alter in the ring."
