Handlers of WBC/WBO middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik (32-0, 29 KOs) have reportedly decided on WBO mandatory challenger Gary Lockett (30-1, 21 KOs) as "The Ghost's" next opponent. The bout would take place on June 7 at Madison Square Garden in New York City or more likely at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City (which we've been informed is being held for that fight). Nothing is finalized and no contracts have been signed, however Lockett's promoter Frank Warren confirmed to the BBC that "We're in negotiations and hopefully we can do a deal with Pavlik's camp pretty soon."
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What do you guys think?
its funny how much things change is a year. pavlik was a 2-1 underdog to miranda and taylor. here we are a year later and hes gonna be a 15-1 favorite in the first defense of his middleweight title. his rise has been as precipitous as that of paul williams. i certainly dont expect the return to reality that the punisher received.
That only would have happened if he fought Calzaghe for his first defense. Until they meet, he can stay undefeated for a bit longer.
its funny how much things change is a year. pavlik was a 2-1 underdog to miranda and taylor. here we are a year later and hes gonna be a 15-1 favorite in the first defense of his middleweight title. his rise has been as precipitous as that of paul williams. i certainly dont expect the return to reality that the punisher received.
As a Brit I'm pleased that Lockett is gonna get a shot and a big payday, but realistically, he doesn't stand a chance.
Lowcett has never beaten anyone of note and that won't start with Pavlik. I wouldn't be surprised if he makes things more difficult than people might think though, purely on the basis that Enzo Calzaghe will train him properly.
This fight is good news for people wanting to see Pavlik vs Calzaghe anyway. I'm sure they'd play up the revenge thing in promoting a possible fight.
Seems like Pavlik's handlers want to get a mandatory out of the way and an easy title defense in the process. Then after that he can fight Abraham later in the year.