Assured Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Less Than Heavier Parker

Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker

Venue: The O2, the capital Date: This Saturday, October 25

Broadcast Details: Catch round-by-round coverage and audio coverage on BBC Sounds and app from half past eight UK time before switching to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10:00 PM.

The New Zealand fighter registered approximately 20lb heavier compared to Fabio Wardley as each big men presented self-assured appearances - albeit in different manners - ahead of the Saturday main event in the capital.

Kiwi Joseph Parker is risking his interim WBO title and chance to compete for the global championship up for grabs versus the unbeaten Wardley at the O2 Arena.

Undisputed division king Oleksandr Usyk has made clear his plan to protect his championship titles against the victor.

"This is it. It signifies all," remarked a determined but concentrated Wardley, thirty, at yesterday's weigh-in.

The Ipswich fighter - possessing the WBA interim strap - weighed in at 17st 5lb, matching his previous matches.

"This fight leading up to the big one. Every effort is done. Preparation is wrapped up. All the hard work is done. Let's get some relaxation now. Major event coming up," he added.

Spitalfields Market in east London saw not just market goods on the scales as the both heavyweights squared up for the last occasion before fight night.

Parker winked at the camera and bobbed along to the beat.

Flexing his strength, he appeared imposing and forceful as he tipped the scales at 119 kg, only five pounds lighter than his heaviest ever.

This represents a significant difference from the 16st 12lb iteration who was defeated his championship to Anthony Joshua in 2018.

"We're weary, we are careful, but I plan to fight fire with fire and I will reach him," Joseph Parker stated.

Fabio Wardley, dressed in an Ipswich top, held a straight face, acknowledged the crowd, but looked focused.

He may be the less heavy fighter, Fabio Wardley has exceptional knockout power. He staged a thrilling comeback versus Huni in the summer, behind on the official tallies before finishing his opponent in the final round despite being outboxed for most of the bout.

"Joseph Parker, his team and boxing fans are about to discover I am destined to be at the top of this heavyweight ranks," Fabio Wardley stated.

"Each rival has been the boxer critics claim will defeat me. Here we are again. His attributes include superior speed, rapid, too experienced. But I haven't been beaten so far, and nothing will alter in the ring."