Interesting style match-up in this one. Pretty good replacement for Barrett, though it's hard to expect too much from Donald given his age, inactivity, and the fact he's taking this on relatively short notice. Still, a decent test for Povetkin at this stage because Donald does possess a good jab and the kind of style that a lot of heavyweights - prospects or contenders - might want to avoid.
Will it be on HBO or Showtime..? HBO always like backing HEavyweight..but they never pick the correct one to back..... Povetkin looks like the FUTURE..
Unfortunately, I think it's off American television unless it gets picked up by MSG. It would be nice if it gets televised, as I'm interested in seeing Kirilov-Vargas on the card as well. I agree HBO should be giving Povetkin some airtime. I think the closest they've gotten to it is on one of those lists Merchant comes up with occasionally mentioning top prospects.
I'll pick Donald over the arrogant strawberry fritter, Povetkin may have the ability to throw hooks like jabs, but he doesn't have anywhere near the conditioner to keep it up for an entire fight, he's too cocky and too much of a preserved amatuer (A German-house coach speciality) to prepare for a 12 round chase, and sooner or later, like a young Wladimir, he's gunna fall down suffercating. Believe dat. Donald is relatively durable, experienced, and skips around a bit, this is a distance fight, Povetkin EXPOSED.
Perhaps, but I figure if Kirk Johnson can get Donald's respect early and make him into a shell in which he gets outworked (and absolutely refuses to throw his right hand) Povetkin should be able to as well...especially given the stage Donald is at now.
It will be interesting to see how HBO adjusts to the growing European dominance in the higher weight classes. Besides Dawson and Godfrey could you name an American prospect/fighter below 30, that has a chance to become/stay a world champion at 175 or above?
Applause for a decent replacement for Barret. Povetkin takes care of business with Donald and we will see him in his next fight because someone over here will see the money potential with this kid. After disposing of Donald he should look for a Fres Oquendo or someone on that level. 2008 will be a huge year for this kid.:bears:
