Povetkin emerges to challenge the Klitschko stranglehold
Published:Former Olympic champion Alexander Povetkin has finally agreed to fight undisputed world heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko and the 11/2 outsider knows it’s time to take his big title shot.
Klitschko (60-3-0) will put his WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, IBO and The Ring straps on the line when he faces Povetkin in Moscow and the 1/9 shot is difficult to back against.
But the home contender and holder of the Regular version of the WBA crown will be anxious to prove he belongs amongst the best heavyweights in the world.
Povetkin remains unbeaten in 26 contests with 18 knockouts to his name and although his ring craft can be called into question there’s no doubting he possesses formidable power.
If he can harness that explosive force in this upcoming bout then there’s a chance he could catch his illustrious rival off guard.
But knocking out a spent Hasim Rahman and Polish prospect Andrzej Wawrzyk in his previous two fights is no ringing endorsement of the challenger.
And a scrappy points victory over Marco Huck also failed to answer’s Povetkin’s critics.
However, the manner in which the White Lion battled for the decision is encouraging given the punishment Klitschko likes to inflict upon his opponents.
The Ukrainian’s trademark jab will no doubt get to work early to prevent the expected onslaught from a fighter who stands four inches shorter than the reigning heavyweight king.
Dr. Steelhammer has hardly been tested in his four contests since facing David Haye though.
Having allegedly ducked one of boxing’s most recognisable figures for the past three years it’s now time for Povetkin to step up and take advantage of any potential chink in his armour.
Klitschko has remained a consummate professional throughout his career, however this fresh mandatory challenge from Povetkin is likely to represent one of his toughest recent assignments.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
Bet Now. New customers can bet £10 and get £30 in free bets
