Confident Fabio Wardley Weighs Twenty Pounds Less Less Than Heavier Joseph Parker
In-form Joseph Parker (left) boasts a six-fight victory run, while knockout artist Fabio Wardley has a perfect record in 20 career contests.
Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley
Fight Location: The O2, the capital Event Date: Weekend, 25 October
Broadcast Details: Tune in for real-time updates and live radio via the BBC Sport website plus digital platforms from 8:30 PM BST before switching to national radio from 22:00.
Parker stepped onto the scales nearly 20lb heavier compared to his opponent as both big men displayed self-assured poses - although in contrasting ways - ahead of the Saturday headliner in the UK.
New Zealand's Joseph Parker will put his WBO 'interim' belt and opportunity to fight for the global championship up for grabs facing the perfect Fabio Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Undisputed heavyweight champion Usyk has indicated his plan to defend his four belts against the victor.
"This is the moment. It signifies the ultimate," said a determined but zoned-in Fabio Wardley, 30, at Friday's scale ceremony.
The Ipswich fighter - the holder of the WBA interim strap - registered at 110 kg, matching his previous matches.
"This contest prior to the ultimate challenge. Every effort is finished. Training is ticked off. All the hard work is put in. Time for some downtime now. Major event ahead," he added.
The historic venue in the capital's east witnessed beyond market goods on the scales as the pair of boxers faced off for the last occasion ahead of fight night.
Joseph Parker winked at the photographers and bobbed along to the music.
Showing off his physique, he looked hefty and forceful as he tipped the scales at 18st 10lb, just a handful of pounds below than his peak weight.
This marks a far cry from the 16st 12lb iteration who lost his belt to Anthony Joshua in the year 2018.
"We are alert, we're cautious, but I'm going to match him blow for blow and I will reach him," Joseph Parker said.
I have reached a superior tier and will dominate him - Joseph Parker
Wardley, wearing an Ipswich top, held a serious expression, nodded to the audience, but appeared focused.
Although he is the smaller man, Fabio Wardley has superb KO strength. He produced a thrilling turnaround versus Huni in the summer, trailing on the scorecards prior to finishing his rival in the final round although being outboxed for most of the fight.
"Joseph Parker, his team and boxing fans will find out I am meant to be at the top of this division," Fabio Wardley stated.
"Every opponent has been the fighter critics say will overcome me. This is the one. He is exceptional pace, swift, highly seasoned. But I haven't been beaten to date, and no one will shift tomorrow night."
