09-28-2017, 05:02 PM
(09-27-2017, 11:35 PM)U.K. Fight Fan Wrote:(09-27-2017, 10:39 PM)diehard Wrote: That's why I was gutted after this fight, win or lose the decision. His basic skills are getting worse. And KB is either hyping him, or delusional. Solution: He needs to face average competition, like Kojimoto, Bellew (if he wins), and maybe Hammer. Then re-assess.
He's a champion now though so he shouldn't get that luxury of facing average competition. I'm fine with champions facing one tough fight then a softer fight then a tough fight, and so on. But if you got a belt you need to defend it against the best every other fight in my opinion, not beating up average guys for 4, 5, 6 fights in a row. If he doesn't, he's fair game for ridicule, just like Wilder has been.
In terms of his skills I think there is raw potential to work with, but I don't think he will get to the very top. But that's ok, not every fighter can. I can't see him getting much more polished as a fighter technically. He's been boxing since a young boy, so any bad habits will be very difficult to undo and he seems very reluctant to jump trainers. Plus physically, he is going to be at an disadvantage in most fights. He will be a top ten HW for the foreseeable future, just not number 1.
Also, is he getting heavier? I heard somewhere that the Fury fight was the heaviest he's been, is that true?
These aren't just bad habits. They are BEGINNER mistakes. Lunging in, poor footwork, head down. going straight back instead of circling an attacking fighter, etc. And his weight. Yes, he's gained a few kilo's. I do think the fight with Fury was his highest weight. But he's so smooth...honestly, I'm an old man, and I'm cut better, and have bigger chest and triceps.
He's competitive against everyone but Wilder and AJ. He needs to work on his skills so that he CAN compete with those two.