Self-assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at Twenty Pounds Below Compared to Heavier Joseph Parker

Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker

Venue: O2 Arena, the capital Date: Saturday, 25 October

Broadcast Details: Follow round-by-round coverage and audio coverage through the BBC Sport website plus digital platforms starting at half past eight UK time then transitioning to BBC 5 Live from 22:00.

Parker registered almost 20 pounds heavier compared to the British boxer as the two top fighters displayed self-assured figures - even if in different ways - leading up to Saturday's feature bout in the capital.

From New Zealand Parker will put his interim WBO title and shot to compete for the undisputed crown up for grabs against the unbeaten Wardley at the O2 Arena.

Undisputed heavyweight champion Usyk has indicated his plan to protect his world titles versus the successful fighter.

"It all comes down to this. It represents the ultimate," said a focused but concentrated Wardley, aged 30, at the Friday scale ceremony.

Wardley - possessing the WBA interim strap - weighed in at seventeen stone five pounds, in line with his latest fights.

"This fight leading up to the ultimate challenge. Every effort is finished. Training is completed. The intense training is put in. Let's get some downtime now. Huge occasion tomorrow," he added.

Spitalfields Market in London's east end hosted beyond fresh produce on the measure as the both boxers squared up for the final time prior to the bout.

Joseph Parker gave a wink at the photographers and swayed along to the beat.

As he flexed his physique, he looked imposing and powerful as he weighed in at 18st 10lb, just 5lb lighter than his career-heaviest.

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

"We are cautious, we are careful, but I plan to match him blow for blow and I will reach him," Parker declared.

Fabio Wardley, wearing an Ipswich top, maintained a focused look, greeted the audience, but seemed concentrated.

He may be the smaller man, Wardley has exceptional KO strength. He staged a thrilling turnaround versus Justis Huni in last June, down on the scorecards prior to stopping his opponent in the tenth round even though being outboxed for much of the contest.

"Joseph Parker, his corner and the sport's followers will learn I am destined to be at the top of this weight class," Fabio Wardley stated.

"Every opponent has been the one critics claim will defeat me. Here we are again. He's too quick, too fast, highly seasoned. But I remain unbeaten to date, and no challenge will shift tomorrow night."