Sergio Martinez vs. Miguel Cotto
This is a very tough one to call, only because it's hard to tell how much either man has left. Martinez's game depends on his movement, and hard left... but if both of those things are compromised by injury, Cotto should take it easily. Cotto has lost 2 out of his last 3, and not close, either. His win over Rodriguez can be dismissed, as the smaller man was the perfect style, and he was never in Cotto's class anyway. How old has either man gotten, and how has rust and injuries affected Sergio. Anything is possible, but I think Cotto's face will break before Martinez's knee is reinjured, and I like a decision or late round TKO for the Argentine.
Vasyl Lomachenko vs. Gary Russell
I am glad this is happening... opposing promoters... complete opposite ways to bring up an Olympian. We should make no distinction between Olympic results. Americans are screwed out of medals while Ukrainans are helped. It means nothing that Vasyl won 2 golds, while Russell washed out. Russell is the faster guy, and overall, probably more polished and ready pro. However, in only 2 fights, Lomachenko has fought the far better opposition, and already showed he belongs in there. It will actually be Russell who will be thrown off by the moment, and after a fast start, he will wilt late. Lomachenko by UD.
Ruslan Provodnikov vs. Chris Algieri
Ruslan should get used to fights like these. In his last two fights, the Siberian Rocky has looked too durable, powerful, and dangerous. He has scared off the few names available to him, due to the cold war. Algieri has good skills, but has not fought anywhere near the likes of Provodnikov, and is only getting this shot because of Banner, Top Rank, and Star Boxing doing an alliance. Provodnikov will get outboxed for a round or two, but Algieri should be broken down for the next few, and be gone by the middle rounds.
