Evander Holyfield (44-10-2) is a freight train that stops for no obstacles or criticism. A ring legend with a hall of fame status secured, he still dreams of becoming a heavyweight world champion just one more time. Earlier this year Holyfield disposed of Brian Nielsen (64-3-0) via a 10th round TKO, paving way for a possible future title bout.
Meanwhile, an unbeaten Russian champion Alexander Povetkin (22-0-0) was able to pull off a unanimous decision win over Ruslan Chagaev (27-2-1) this past Saturday, claiming the vacant WBA title.
Holyfield may actually have a shot at the title once again, as he is slated to face Povetkin on December 17 in Zurich.
As of this moment, nothing has been signed as of yet, with both promoters working on a contract to see if the fight details can be agreed upon. Truthfully speaking, I don?t think there is anything that anyone can come up with to turn Holyfield off from this opportunity. I believe this fight will happen soon, with both fighters benefiting from the idea: Holyfield gets a shot at the title, and Povetkin gets a superstar name on his resume. Of course the benefit only becomes favorable if the fighter wins the fight.
While I am wholeheartedly glad that Holyfield is getting this opportunity, I think that this fight will be a bit too much for him, as at 49 years of age, a young Povetkin may prove to be exceedingly out of his league.
But who am I to predict anything when it comes to a warrior like Holyfield. His impressive performance against Nikolai Valuev (50-2-0) sure made me think. Anything can happen in boxing, and due to my undying respect for Evander, I wish him success and a victory in his attempt at retiring a world champion. He most certainly deserves it.
PS: While writing this, I thought of the following scenario: say Holyfield loses his bout against Povetkin in December while displaying great performance anyway, would him facing David Haye (25-2-0) be such a ridiculous proposal?
