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

Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker

Fight Location: O2 Arena, the capital Date: Weekend, 25 October

Coverage: Tune in for round-by-round coverage and listen via the BBC Sport website plus digital platforms from 20:30 BST then transitioning to BBC 5 Live from 10:00 PM.

The New Zealand fighter weighed almost 20 pounds above compared to the British boxer as each heavyweights displayed confident figures - albeit in contrasting ways - for Saturday's feature bout in London.

Kiwi Parker places his WBO 'interim' belt and opportunity to fight for the world title on the line versus the undefeated Wardley at the premier boxing arena.

Undisputed heavyweight champion the champion has signalled his intention to protect his world titles versus the successful fighter.

"It all comes down to this. It represents everything," said a focused but focused Fabio Wardley, 30, at yesterday's pre-fight ritual.

The Ipswich fighter - who holds the WBA interim strap - weighed in at 17st 5lb, consistent with his previous matches.

"This is the one prior to the big one. Every effort is finished. Preparation is completed. The intense training is accomplished. Let's get some rest now. Huge occasion coming up," he stated further.

Spitalfields Market in the capital's east hosted more than market goods on the scales as the pair of boxers squared up for the last occasion prior to the main event.

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

Showing off his physique, he looked imposing and forceful as he registered at eighteen stone ten pounds, just a handful of pounds less than his career-heaviest.

This marks a major change from the 16st 12lb fighter who was defeated his championship to Anthony Joshua in 2018.

"We are cautious, we are careful, but I plan to fight fire with fire and I will reach him," Joseph Parker declared.

Fabio Wardley, wearing an football shirt, kept a straight face, greeted the fans, but appeared focused.

Despite being the smaller man, Wardley has exceptional KO strength. He delivered a thrilling comeback against Justis Huni in the summer, down on the official tallies then stopping his opponent in the tenth round although being outclassed for the majority of the bout.

"Joseph Parker, his corner and supporters are about to discover I am meant to be at the top of this division," Wardley affirmed.

"Each rival has been the boxer critics claim will overcome me. Here we are again. He's exceptional pace, rapid, too experienced. Yet My record is perfect yet, and no challenge will shift in the ring."