On-a-roll Joseph Parker (left) has a six-match unbeaten stretch, whereas KO expert Wardley has a perfect record in 20 career contests.
Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker
Location: The O2, the capital Fight Night: Saturday, October 25
Coverage: Catch round-by-round coverage and audio coverage via BBC Sounds and app from 8:30 PM BST prior to moving to BBC Radio 5 Live from 22:00.
The New Zealand fighter registered approximately 20 pounds heavier against his opponent as both big men presented self-assured figures - even if in opposing ways - ahead of this weekend's feature bout in the UK.
Kiwi Parker will put his interim WBO title and opportunity to challenge for the world title at stake facing the undefeated Wardley at the premier boxing arena.
Undisputed division king the champion has made clear his aim to protect his championship titles facing the winner.
"It all comes down to this. It signifies all," remarked a determined but zoned-in Wardley, thirty, at yesterday's weigh-in.
The Ipswich fighter - who holds the WBA 'interim' belt - registered at 17st 5lb, consistent with his previous matches.
"This fight before the one. All the work is completed. Preparation is wrapped up. All the hard work is put in. Let's get some relaxation now. Big night coming up," he added.
Spitalfields Market in east London saw more than fresh produce on the scales as the pair of fighters squared up for the ultimate face-off ahead of the bout.
Joseph Parker winked at the camera and moved along to the beat.
As he flexed his strength, he seemed powerful and forceful as he tipped the scales at eighteen stone ten pounds, merely 5lb lighter than his career-heaviest.
This represents a significant difference from the 16st 12lb version who lost his championship to AJ in the year 2018.
"We are cautious, we are wary, but I'm going to fight fire with fire and I intend to connect with him," Joseph Parker declared.
I'm at a different level and will smash him - Joseph Parker
Fabio Wardley, sporting an Ipswich Town jersey, maintained a serious expression, nodded to the crowd, but looked concentrated.
Although he is the lighter guy, Fabio Wardley has superb knockout power. He produced a remarkable recovery against Huni in June, behind on the official tallies prior to stopping his opponent in the tenth round although being outboxed for much of the fight.
"Joseph Parker, his team and supporters will learn I belong to be at the summit of this weight class," Wardley affirmed.
"All challengers has been the fighter critics claim will defeat me. Here we are again. He's superior speed, swift, vastly experienced. But I remain unbeaten so far, and no challenge will shift in the ring."
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