Manny Pacquiao vs. Miguel Cotto
Yes, I Know Cotto is bigger, stronger, tougher, blah blah blah... but it doesn't matter. Pacquiao has the ability to use his quickness, power, and movement to frustrate Cotto down the stretch. Cotto will likely do well with body shots, and attempting to make Pacquiao come to him. this will only work, however, until he gets busted up. Then Manny will take over, and put a lot more pressure on his foe than did Clottey. Pacquiao by 10th rd TKO. Cotto will likely be finished as a serious fighter after this, as well.
Vitali Klitschko vs. Kevin Johnson
Kudos to the elder Klitschko for getting right back in the ring with another undefeated heavyweight contender so soon after the Arreola fight. He is making a better case for being a champion that Wladimir who still has Chambers and Povetkin lined up, and waiting. Although Johnson uses entirely different skills than Arreola, the outcome will eb the same. Instead of a plodding, powerful fighter being unable to get his combinations off, we will have an undersized counterpuncher being unable to find his targte, and taking too many shots in the process. Klitschko by yet another late round TKO, in a dominant performance over a worthy contender.
Nicolai Valuev vs. David Haye
Anything could happen here. 1st round kayo for either man is a distinct possibility, due most likely to Haye's power, and lack of a chin. Sloppy decision for either man is a possibility too, given Valuev's size and frustrating style. It is intriguing as a David vs. Goliath (half literally) matchup, but is really only to determine who will be the next to be knocked out by a Klitschko brother. If you make me pick, I'd say Valuev will have things his way, meaning Haye will outpoint him, and get screwed out of a decision. Valuev by controversial decision, as is customary when you fight for Sauerland promotions.
Lucien Bute vs. Librado Andrade
It could be as simple as Bute training better, and outboxing Andrade to an easy decision. To be honest, I wouldn't even be shocked if that is what happens. However, I am more inclined to believe it is Andrade, not Bute, who has learned a lesson from their last encounter. While clearly not of the ilk that would attempt to outbox his slicker foe, Librado need only to utilize body punching and cutting off of the ring, to ensure that Bute suffers a breakdown a few rounds earlier than he did the last time. I believe Bute will also be more mentally affected than Andrade, and perhaps mix it up more, in an effort to discourage his opponent's pressure. Eventually the challenger will take over, and score what will likely be a spectacular knockout. Andrade by 10th round KO.
Chris Strait
www.convictedartist.com
