Self-assured Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Less Below Than Bulky Joseph Parker

Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley

Fight Location: London's O2 Arena, London Event Date: Saturday, 25 October

Broadcast Details: Tune in for round-by-round coverage and audio coverage on the BBC Sport website and app starting at half past eight UK time prior to moving to BBC 5 Live from 10 PM BST.

The New Zealand fighter weighed almost 20 pounds above than the British boxer as each heavyweights cut assured figures - even if in opposing styles - leading up to Saturday's feature bout in the capital.

New Zealand's Joseph Parker places his WBO 'interim' belt and chance to compete for the undisputed crown up for grabs versus the unbeaten Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena.

Undisputed division king the champion has indicated his intention to retain his world titles facing the victor.

"It all comes down to this. This means everything," stated a focused but focused Fabio Wardley, thirty, at Friday's weigh-in.

Wardley - the holder of the interim WBA title - registered at 110 kg, consistent with his latest fights.

"This contest leading up to the ultimate challenge. Every effort is finished. Preparation is wrapped up. All the hard work is done. Let's get some relaxation now. Big night coming up," he stated further.

The historic venue in the capital's east witnessed beyond typical items on the measure as the pair of fighters squared up for the ultimate face-off prior to the bout.

Joseph Parker gave a wink at the camera and moved along to the beat.

Flexing his muscles, he looked hefty and forceful as he weighed in at 119 kg, only a handful of pounds lighter than his career-heaviest.

It is a far cry from the sixteen stone twelve pound iteration who was defeated his world title to Anthony Joshua in the year 2018.

"We're weary, we are wary, but I plan to match him blow for blow and I'm going to get him," Joseph Parker said.

Fabio Wardley, wearing an Ipswich Town jersey, kept a serious expression, greeted the fans, but appeared focused.

Although he is the smaller man, Wardley has outstanding stopping ability. He staged a dramatic comeback facing Huni in June, down on the scorecards before defeating his foe in the final round although being outclassed for the majority of the bout.

"Parker, his camp and supporters will find out I am destined to be at the peak of this heavyweight ranks," Fabio Wardley affirmed.

"Every opponent has been the one pundits predict will defeat me. This is the one. His attributes include too quick, swift, vastly experienced. Yet My record is perfect so far, and no challenge will alter tomorrow night."