Assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Less Than Bulky Parker

Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker

Venue: London's O2 Arena, the capital Event Date: Weekend, October 25

Live Updates: Tune in for round-by-round coverage and audio coverage on the BBC Sport website and app from half past eight UK time then transitioning to national radio from 22:00.

The New Zealand fighter stepped onto the scales nearly 20 pounds heavier than Fabio Wardley as both top fighters presented confident appearances - although in different manners - ahead of this weekend's main event in the UK.

New Zealand's Parker will put his interim WBO title and shot to fight for the undisputed crown up for grabs against the perfect Fabio Wardley at the London venue.

Undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has made clear his intention to defend his four belts versus the winner.

"This is it. It signifies all," stated a serious but zoned-in Wardley, 30, at yesterday's scale ceremony.

The Ipswich fighter - the holder of the WBA interim strap - registered at seventeen stone five pounds, in line with his recent bouts.

"This contest leading up to the ultimate challenge. All the work is finished. Training is wrapped up. The intense training is put in. Now for some rest now. Major event coming up," he stated further.

The historic venue in east London hosted more than market goods on the measure as the both fighters squared up for the last occasion prior to fight night.

Parker gave a wink at the lenses and swayed along to the tunes.

As he flexed his muscles, he looked imposing and powerful as he tipped the scales at eighteen stone ten pounds, just a handful of pounds lighter than his heaviest ever.

This represents a far cry from the 107 kg iteration who was defeated his championship to Joshua in the year 2018.

"We're weary, we are wary, but I'm going to respond with equal force and I intend to connect with him," Parker declared.

Fabio Wardley, dressed in an Ipswich top, maintained a straight face, nodded to the fans, but seemed focused.

Despite being the smaller man, Wardley has outstanding KO strength. He delivered a thrilling turnaround versus Huni in last June, down on the judges' cards then defeating his rival in the tenth round despite being outclassed for the majority of the bout.

"Parker, his camp and the sport's followers will learn I am destined to be at the top of this heavyweight ranks," Fabio Wardley said.

"Each rival has been the one pundits predict will overcome me. Here we are again. He's exceptional pace, swift, vastly experienced. But My record is perfect yet, and nothing will shift on fight night."