Merciless Klitschko Dispatches Mercer

By Aidan Monaghan

29.06 - With brutal power, sizzling speed and ruthless efficiency Wladimir Klitschko pounded a very tough and brave Ray Mercer to a pulp on Saturday night to retain his WBO heavyweight title in Atlantic City, New Jersey. In round one Klitschko deposited Mercer onto the canvas for only the second time in his career with a combination that culminated with a left hook high to the head of Mercer. Momentarily it seemed that Mercer, lying flat on his back, might not make the referees ten count but eventually returned to his feet to complete the round. For Mercer however, his greatest assets - a terrific chin and rarely seen determination - would only permit Klitschko to continue his determined assault.

Indeed, it was clear from the opening moments that Wladimir was max attentive of the importance of this, the most significant fight of his now blossoming career. His punch output and the force and speed with which he threw these punches was unlike any in the past. Interestingly however, several times throughout the fight following the first round knockdown, Klitschko staggered Mercer who each time invited Wladimir to try and finish him off and each time Wladimir showed a noteworthy patience by instead trying to calculatedly find openings in the Mercer defense. However, at times one could note a slightly greater desire by Klitschko to finish off Mercer, than is normally evident. The end came in the sixth round when Klitschko unleashed lefts and rights that were finding their target with tremendous force, prompting referee Randy Neuman to bring a halt to the match. With arms raised in victory Wladimir as per usual, stood in each corner of the ring to acknowledge his supporters and was even raised upon the shoulders of brother Vitali.

To Mercers credit, he often utilized a fairly effective jab which contributed to some mild swelling and discoloration under Klitschko's left eye. However, along with only a few effective counter punches the Mercer attack was almost nonexistent. Too much of his time was occupied by maintaining a diligent yet overmatched defense. At times, one must have been left wondering how even Mercer could absorb the wicked thrashing that he took. If nothing else, Mercer once again confirmed that at least he still has likely the best chin in the sport.

During the HBO broadcast, talk quickly turned to Klitschko's future and immediately the name of Lennox Lewis was once again raised. Lewis' trainer Emanuel Steward, providing co commentary for the fight indicated that if Lewis were to continue fighting it would have to be against a foe worthy to attract Lewis' desire and Steward indicated that Klitschko, along with Kirk Johnson would provide such incentive.