It is something of a risk for the Kiwi, who could have simply waited for Usyk to return to fitness, but now faces the prospect of losing his interim title.
He will have his heart set on facing Usyk should he upset Parker this weekend.
Fight date, time, and location
Parker vs Wardley will take place on Saturday, October 25, at London’s O2 Arena.
The main card is expected to begin around 7pm BST.
Contenders: Joseph Parker and Fabio Wardley
Getty Images
Ring walks for the main event are expected around 10.30pm BST.
How to watch Parker vs Wardley
Parker vs Wardley will be broadcast exclusively in the UK on DAZN pay-per-view.
A pay-per-view pass will cost £24.99, and comes with seven days of free access to DAZN.
The pay-per-view pass is available for free with an annual subscription, worth £14.99 per month.
Joseph Parker vs Fabio Wardley (WBO interim heavyweight title, heavyweight, 12 rounds)
Steed Woodall vs Ezra Taylor (British light-heavyweight title, 12 rounds)
Juergen Uldedaj vs Rolly Lambert Fogoum (Cruiserweight, 12 rounds)
Danny Quartermaine vs Royston Barney-Smith (Super-featherweight, 10 rounds)
Mitchell Smith vs Arnie Dawson (Lightweight, 10 rounds)
Parker comes into this fight with an awful lot to lose. He has taken a big risk by agreeing to face Wardley, and could face a massive career setback should he lose.
But as far as he is concerned, defeat is not an option. Parker will have been a keen viewer of Wardley’s most recent bout against Huni, where he was beyond lucky to escape with a win.
Parker will be all too aware of Wardley’s weaknesses and his own status as an interim champion. He should have no issue retaining his belt.
Wardley by decision: 10/1
Odds via BetFair (Subject to change)
