23.09.05 – By Patsys Jones: First of all let me say that whatever the outcome of this fight, it is surely good for boxing, and the HW division in particular. This is the type of fight that interest boxing fans, so kudos to the IBF for playing a factor in convincing both parties to make this fight, more kudos for Wlad and Peter for making this fight.. Now when the bell sounds, boxing fans brace yourselves to one of the biggest letdown in boxing this year. If I were to describe the way I see this fight in the shortest possible way, I’ll say it this way: “Lewis-Tua Dejavu”
That is right. I don’t see this fight going any other direction. It will be a one sided fight in favor of the taller, rangier Wlad Klitschko. Just like the Lewis-Tua fight, I liked both Wlad and Peter though I slightly wanted Peter to win as he brings more excitement to the division. Just like Lewis-Tua, many say Wlad gets koed because of his chinny chin chin. Lastly just like Lewis-Tua, the jab of the taller guy Wlad will keep Peter off bay for the entire 12 rounds.
I have seen a lot of Wlad fights and really can not see how Peter can handle Wlad’s great jabs. Anyone who watches his fights with Schultz, Mccline, Botha, Mercer, Byrd, and even against Brewster, there is no denying that Wlad’s jabs are the closest thing to that of the great Lennox Lewis. And guess what, Manny Steward will definitely tell Wlad to throw them at least 40 jabs a round – Lewis’ success formula under Steward.
Like I said, I like Peter to win and I hope he tries to rush things up from the opening bell because that will be his only chance. He can not just follow Wlad around the ring and try to box with the gold medalist, because he will only eat a lot of jabs. Not only Wlad’s jabs will take their toll, but also the movement Peter will be doing to avoid those jabs will take a lot of the big guy’s (Peter’s) stamina. So if Peter doesn’t KO Wlad within 3 rounds, expect him to be in the survival mode with only few spurts of wild swings every now and then.
The only difference between this fight and the Lewis-Tua is that Tua’s chin is tried and tested to be one of the greatest ever in the sport. What about Peter’s? We will see.
With all above being said, I predict Wlad beats Peter either by a very wide UD or by late TKO.