Photo Credit: Sebastian Bentzin/KMG
HAMBURG, GERMANY –Wladimir Klitschko and Kubrat Pulev completed their weigh-in requirements (sans Shannon Briggs) earlier today for Saturday’s heavyweight title clash. Both men were in great shape. Klitschko’s 245 pounds is two pounds less than he weighed when defeating Alex Leapai nearly seven months ago. Pulev’s 246 is his lowest since knocking out Alexander Dimitrenko in 2012.
PREDICTION: Pulev should be a good test for Klitschko. The undefeated Bulgarian is 6’4, can box from range, and has a competent inside game. He showed in his win over Tony Thompson that he has the stamina to pour on punches and pressure late in bouts. However, Pulev will have immense struggles avoiding Wladimir’s long jab. And when he does breach that pole of a left hand, Pulev will be greeted by bearhugs inside.
I see Pulev getting three rounds at most on inside activity, but failing to make any serious dents on Klitschko’s chin, nor succeeding in outboxing the champ for any prolonged stretches at mid nor long-range. KLITSCHKO UD
