Pavlik vs Kessler : In US : SMW : WBA Title : Who Wins?

[dstew]

I went with Pavlik for the sheer fact that he's shown himself to have the determination to come back from adversity to win difficult fights. I think Kessler and Pavlik are evenly matched enough that it would come down to who's got the most guts.

That, and I think it will take a slick, crafty boxer to beat Pav. A younger Hopkins could do it, but probably not the 43 year old version we'll see in a couple weeks. A Taylor with better movement could've done it, but he was too willing to stand in front of Pavlik all night.

[Dick-Sucker]

Even though i have gone with a late Kessler KO/TKO.

Is anyone will to argue against this , being possibly one of the greatest fights of the modern era?

[kayjay]

This time last year, Kessler would have beaten him badly. The Kessler who lost to Calzaghe was leagues above the Pavlik who beat Taylor.

But times change, and it's hard to say what will be the case in '09-'10, which is when this could eventually take place.

[Randall_Hopkirk]

Pavlik will overwhelm Kessler after a few rounds and round out a reasonably comfortable decision win.

Pavlik has beaten far superior fighters, he's proven at the elite level Mikkel isn't.

[KESSLER]

I can see a TKO win for Kessler in the 11th round. But I'm gonna play my cards safe and go with Kessler by UD.

[sparked_85]

I believe Kessler is the better boxer but Pavlik is the better fighter in the sense he is certainly tougher. Fighting at this level is won on the little details.

Calzaghe basically beat Kessler because he was mentally tougher.

Tough to call. Very very tough.

[Fox McCloud]

Big Daddy Kess takes this one down.

[KESSLER]

Big Daddy Kess takes this one down.

Damn right he does.

[dstew]

The outcome of this fight hinges on Kessler's ability to take Pavlik's constant barrage of punches. Kess will have to keep coming forward and keep the pressure on Pavlik if he wants to win. I know he can box with Pavlik, but really question if he's got the mental toughness to push Kelly backwards, instead of vice versa, because he's going to take some punishment in the process. I can't help but to see him folding.

[Kesslerfan#1]

Tough call...lovem both but Kessler is my favorite!!!
If Pavlik lands Calzaghe mid 09 should he get by popkins and Kessler lands Taylor after he beats Lacy this would make for a mouthwatering christmas treat...but will Pav get by Calzaghe??? hmmmm.
Wouldint like to put money on this one...Kessler needs more competition for a showdown with Kelly...if I had to put my life on it I would have to go for Pavlik unfortunatley...Kess cant sharpen up fighting these bums.