Wladimir Klitschko vs. Francisco Pianeta
A quick glance at Pianeta's record... is all that is justified. Do we really have to go through this much more often. Klitschko by TKO, about round 9, and he will have been able to take Pianeta out for about 5 rounds before that.
Lamont Peterson vs. Lucas Matthysse
Exciting things are a-happening at 140lbs! This fight matches two very durable fighters, who put pressure on their opponents. Matthysse is the bigger puncher, but Peterson is the more complete fighter. The winner of this fight is the man at 140lbs, and Khan or Garcia will have to step up to match them. Just how much has Matthysse learned? Are we too carried away with how good he has looked against lower opposition? I believe so. People may say I am crazy, but I pick Peterson to be able to do more things, and even outwork Lucas on the inside... in order to win a close-ish UD
Devin Alexander vs. Kell Brook
Had this fight come off as it was originally intended, I'd be picking Alexander, no problem. In fact, I'd probably go as far as to predict a Billy Dib, Howard Eastman style freeze-up on the part of Brook. However, given what has transpired during the delay, I believe Alexander will be looking past Brook, and the Brit will be extra motivated. The skills are definitely there, as are the potentials for big fights for the winner. Alexander will box well early, but Brook will close the gap. Brook by MD.
Lucien Bute vs. Jean Pascal
Consolation prize fights can be very lucrative, depending on the country of origin. Pascal has been battling injuries since his loss to Bernard Hopkins, and other than a win over Chad Dawson has been largely unimpressive at the higher levels. Bute was dazzling everyone, until Carl Froch handed his head to him, and has been walking around as a big question mark ever since. It is difficult to determine what will happen here, as both men like to use boxing, counterpunching, and quickness. Both men will have a huge Canadian base cheering for them. This is a lucrative fight for both, but it may be the last one at the higher level for one of them. I think Pascal has likely more to prove, and more distance between now and his questionable performances. Lucien is always a body punch away from ending things, but something tells me Pascal will do enough to keep Bute fighting scared, and win a close UD.
Chris Strait
www.convictedartist.com
