By Ruslan Chikov
The ex-heavyweight champion of the WBA, Nikolai Valuev, liked what he saw in Ruslan Chagaev's twelve round decision win over Kali Meehan in Saturday's fight in Germany. The fight was a WBA eliminator for a shot at current champion David Haye. Chagaev was the first fight to beat Valuev on points. Valuev has not fought since losing his title to Haye last year. He is waiting for a date to fight Odlanier Solis in a WBC eliminator.
"Chagaev had a very convincing victory. I didn't think Meehan won a single round in the fight. Chagaev dominated the action in the entire fight and he worked well when they got in close," Valuev told Ruslife.
It was Chagaev's first fight under new trainer Magomed Shaburova. Valuev said it was too early to tell if the new coach made changes to Chagaev's style.
"I find it difficult to judge whether Chagaev was boxing better. On Saturday he was in good shape. It was evident, based on the last time [he fought], that he probably recovered from his injuries and he was very well prepared to fight," Valuev said.
