By Luke Furman
Hala Azoty, Kedzierzyn Kozle, Poland - The Polish giant, former world heavyweight title challenger Mariusz Wach (32-2. 17 KOs) barely bounced back from last year's knockout defeat to Alexander Povetkin to win a very close ten round unanimous decision over journeyman Marcelo Luiz Nascimento (22-13, 19 KOs). The scores were 98-92, 96-94, 96-95.
Mariusz began well and dictated the conditions. He used his physical advantages, especially his height and reach effectively. But as the fight continued Wach looked flat and unable to get off with his punches, which allowed Nascimento get in rounds and work his way into the fight.
Wach's performance showed that he is still a long way from fighting with the elite opponents of his weight class.
Wach was able to do some decent work in the early rounds with Povetkin last November, but it was the same scenario where he faded in the later rounds and eventually it became target practice, as the referee waved off the contest.
There will have to be some serious work in the gym and some training adjustments with his style in order to get his career back on track for the next contest.
Luke Furman covers boxing for bokser.org
