Kell Brook and Errol Spence Jr shone in the Sheffield sunshine, but did we learn anything from Wednesday's public work-outs?
You had to look carefully, but there might have been signs. Kell Brook and Errol Spence Jr offered a glimpse into Saturday's world championship encounter - a high-class offering of switch-hitting, punch variety and educated movement - but we don't yet know what to believe.
People had filled the Peace Gardens in Sheffield on Wednesday, nearby the fight's location at Bramall Lane, to see the city's world champion. Brook emerged clutching flowers, paying respect to the Manchester victims on behalf of his city, every inch the classy representative that he has grown into. A father himself, he spoke with great jurisdiction on the tragedy before stepping into the ring where his every move was premeditated.
The most noticeable thing was that Brook, an orthodox fighter, boxed for substantial periods as a southpaw. Stood in the opposite stance, his focus was on slinging the back-hand rather than jabbing. It is a fascinating option that Brook has at his disposal to match Spence Jr, the natural southpaw, but comes with obvious risk.
"Knowing [Brook's trainer] Dominic Ingle like I do," Johnny Nelson observed, "he'll give us as little as possible." Brook the southpaw? He has shown this technique in previous fights but never against a dangerous, natural southpaw like Spence Jr.
The American challenger had previously occupied the ring, soaking in the afternoon's last remaining sunshine, and spoke of his "it factor" before demonstrating exactly what he meant.
Comfortable under attention, he was relaxed signing autographs and taking pictures with the Sheffield locals that had dashed into the city centre after work. He possessed the aura of a world champion, even if he doesn't yet have a belt to prove it.
But what about those body punches? Spence Jr's trademark shot was completely absent from his work-out - he opted for one-two combinations throughout. Trying to disguise his eventual attack? Tony Bellew, casting his eye over proceedings, thought Spence Jr was trying to hide his best punch for Saturday night.
"That will be where he goes, it's one of the best weapons in his arsenal," Bellew said. "He wants to dictate the pace, and he will do that by hitting Kell to the body."
Elsewhere, George Groves' sunglasses and hat pairing typified his relaxed outlook despite the expected pressure of his fourth world title fight approaching. The most incredible combo of the work-outs, however, belonged to heavyweight Dave Allen who dazzled in a pink cap and matching t-shirt "to embrace the beautifulness of the day".
Wednesday's work-outs were about smiling before the seriousness of the week takes over but Brook and Spence Jr, while entertaining a grateful crowd, might have revealed some secrets about Saturday night. Like poker players with everything on the line, we don't yet know who is bluffing.
Watch Groves vs Chudinov before Brook vs Spence Jr, from Bramall Lane, Sheffield, May 27, live on Sky Sports Box Office. Book the event online here or via your Sky remote.