that Chagaev only had a few weeks notice though
Chagaev was training for a fight with Valuev that was supposed to happen less than a month before, but it was called off. Since Haye backed out of the Wladimir fight, Chagaev agreed to take his place. He was still in good condition.
Err.. I don't know about the hating and racism parts, but I think he's just generally underrated because he's a heavyweight and is usually considered "boring".
I don't know about you, but the term pound for pound refers to fighters of all divisions. You shouldn't just exclude one.
Nothing but respect for the man. He didn't compain; he didn't make excuses. He just lost to a better fighter. No shame in losing to the p4p #1 and 2. Why you ask?
Just curious as to what his opponent's fans thought of him. Thanks for your reply.
Haye better fight him, if he wants to earn respect. He called out both Klitschko brothers two years ago and they both gave him a fight. He cancelled out of both. Now is the time to fight.