18.11.06 – By Dave Domenico: Last Saturday, Wladimir showed some real promise as being the best heavyweight in the world. His seventh round blow out of Calvin Brock demonstrated he is champion material. Wladimir showed poise in the ring, his ability to adapt to a frustrating opponent, and his mental stability in not panicking when being hurt.
Although the bout between Klitschko and Brock started out very cautious. Wladimir was able to close the deal on a slick and tough opponent. I for one, felt bad for Brock when he crashed to the canvas face first after absorbing a flush right hand from Klitschko. Brock showed some real hart and toughness in the fight, and he was able to effectively frustrate and negate Klitschko’e offense for the first five rounds. Unfortunately, there was a big margin of skill level between the two fighter and once Klitschko was able to establish his spearing jab, it was only a matter of time before his big right found it’s mark.
The attendance at the garden for this fight showed some real promise. Of course, there were many eastern European fans in the arena, but I cannot help but to think there were many American fight fans present to see what Klitschko would bring to the table.
Personally, I think there are many people still reluctant to embrace Wladimir. Perhaps it is because he is a foreigner. Perhaps he comes off as too polite. We all know many American fight fans like their trash-talking fighters. Perhaps time will tell, but the feeling I got from the bout was that people are starting to come around for Wlad. Of all the heavyweights today he shows the most promise. So, the question I leave you is America ready for Wlad? Are they still holding out for a more Domestic personality to emerge? I guess Klitschko’s next bout will clarify that that question.