Assured Fabio Wardley Tips the scales at 20lb Lighter Than Heavier Joseph Parker

Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley

Location: The O2, London Date: Saturday, the 25th of October

Live Updates: Follow round-by-round coverage and live radio on BBC Sounds and app starting at 20:30 BST before switching to BBC Radio 5 Live from 10:00 PM.

The New Zealand fighter stepped onto the scales nearly twenty pounds above against his opponent as each heavyweights cut assured appearances - albeit in contrasting ways - leading up to this weekend's main event in the capital.

From New Zealand Parker will put his WBO interim championship and shot to fight for the undisputed crown up for grabs versus the perfect Wardley at the premier boxing arena.

Reigning heavyweight champion the champion has signalled his plan to protect his world titles facing the winner.

"This is it. It represents all," said a serious but focused Fabio Wardley, thirty, at Friday's scale ceremony.

Wardley - the holder of the WBA interim strap - weighed in at seventeen stone five pounds, consistent with his latest fights.

"This contest leading up to the ultimate challenge. All preparation is completed. Preparation is wrapped up. The intense training is put in. Let's get some downtime now. Huge occasion tomorrow," he continued.

The historic venue in London's east end saw beyond typical items on the weighing platform as the two fighters confronted each other for the ultimate face-off prior to fight night.

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

Showing off his physique, he appeared imposing and strong as he tipped the scales at 119 kg, merely a handful of pounds below than his peak weight.

This represents a far cry from the 107 kg version who surrendered his world title to Anthony Joshua in 2018.

"We are cautious, we are wary, but I'm going to respond with equal force and I'm going to get him," Joseph Parker declared.

Wardley, wearing an Ipswich top, maintained a serious expression, nodded to the audience, but looked concentrated.

He may be the smaller man, Wardley has superb knockout power. He staged a dramatic recovery facing his opponent in the summer, behind on the scorecards prior to stopping his rival in the final round although being outboxed for much of the bout.

"His opponent, his camp and supporters will find out I belong to be at the top of this heavyweight ranks," Fabio Wardley stated.

"Every opponent has been the one critics claim will beat me. Here we are again. He's superior speed, too fast, highly seasoned. But My record is perfect to date, and no one will shift on fight night."