Confident Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Lighter Than Substantial Parker
Winning-streak Parker (on the left) is on a six-fight victory run, while stoppage expert Fabio Wardley remains unbeaten in twenty professional fights.
Wardley-Parker Heavyweight Clash
Venue: O2 Arena, London Fight Night: Saturday, the 25th of October
Coverage: Tune in for round-by-round coverage and listen via BBC 5 Live Sports Extra and app from 20:30 BST then transitioning to BBC Radio 5 Live from 22:00.
Parker stepped onto the scales approximately twenty pounds above against Fabio Wardley as both heavyweights presented confident appearances - even if in contrasting ways - for Saturday's main event in the capital.
From New Zealand Parker places his interim WBO title and chance to challenge for the undisputed crown up for grabs against the unbeaten Wardley at the O2 Arena.
Unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has made clear his intention to defend his four belts against the successful fighter.
"This is the moment. It represents everything," remarked a focused but concentrated Wardley, aged 30, at Friday's scale ceremony.
Wardley - possessing the interim WBA title - came in at 110 kg, matching his recent bouts.
"This contest leading up to the one. All the work is finished. Training is wrapped up. All the hard work is accomplished. Let's get some relaxation now. Huge occasion tomorrow," he stated further.
The historic venue in east London witnessed beyond fresh produce on the measure as the pair of heavyweights faced off for the last occasion before fight night.
Parker flashed a wink at the camera and bobbed along to the tunes.
Showing off his strength, he looked imposing and powerful as he registered at 18st 10lb, merely five pounds less than his career-heaviest.
This represents a far cry from the 107 kg fighter who was defeated his belt to AJ in 2018.
"We're weary, we're cautious, but I will to respond with equal force and I'm going to get him," Joseph Parker declared.
I operate on a higher plane and will dominate him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, sporting an football shirt, maintained a serious expression, acknowledged the fans, but seemed zoned in.
Despite being the smaller man, Wardley has exceptional knockout power. He produced a thrilling recovery against his opponent in June, trailing on the official tallies then defeating his rival in the tenth round despite being outboxed for most of the bout.
"Parker, his team and boxing fans are about to discover I am meant to be at the summit of this division," Wardley affirmed.
"All challengers has been the one critics say will beat me. Here we are again. He's too quick, swift, too experienced. Yet My record is perfect so far, and no challenge will shift in the ring."