Deontay Wilder vs. Sergei Liakhovich
There are a number of noteworthy heavyweight fights in the month of august. Not noteworthy in that any of them have a chance of beating a Klitschko, but in that they feature heavyweight contenders of past present and future. In the first installment, Deontay Wilder is taking on a former belt-holder in Liakhovich. Wilder is being super protected at this stage, as is now the sad norm for former Olympians. Gone are the days of 8 fights to a belt. The Belarussian is only being chosen because he has been on a losing streak, and that will continue here. Wilder will win, and win early, because that is his style... when he wins. I'd love to tell you more about him, but we haven't found out much... we won't in this fight either, because Sergei is done. Wilder by 4 the round KO.
David Tua vs. Alexander Ustinov
Yes, Ustinov is hardly a legit contender, and Tua is past his prime, but due to ranking nonsense, the winner of this fight is all but assured an optional defense from a Klitschko, both of whom are facing mandatories next. Tua's plan is never a secret. He will stalk closely, taking punishment, until a chance to strike presents itself. I have a feeling that he is too shot to take advantage, and Ustinov will play it safe. Tua could still find lightning in a bottle, but odds are Ustinov will give it his all to earn the big money title shot. Ustinov by UD... and Tua will re-retire.
Tomasz Adamek vs. Tony Grano
Adamek has not won his last two fights legitimately, but he sells tickets, and still has skills. Tony Grano is a rare fighter who he can stop, and will keep attacking no matter what. We know what that is setting up, and it will happen. Adamek will get caught, rocked, and recover quickly like he usually does, to stop Grano, probably in round 6. He is probably one of the first to capture a belt, if the Klitschkos retire in the next couple of years.
Eddie Chambers vs. Thabiso Mchunu
This fight is only included as Chambers is having a tough time getting cruiserweight opponents. The reason is that he would beat most of them, and has no fan base. This has also set off a funny twitter battle between Chambers and his South African challenger... but something had to get Chambers excited for this fight. Mchunu's jawing will end the moment he experiences Chambers quickness, and strength at this weight. He will then go into survival mode, which will be his only victory. Chambers by UD.
AUGUST BOXING PREDICTIONS PART 1
Chris Strait
www.convictedartist.com