In 1998, Zeljko Mavrovic put up a hell of an effort against Lennox Lewis for the WBC version of the heavyweight title. Not much is available out there, however, about the national significance of this title bout for Zeljko, a native of Croatia. Mavrovic had to have been the first – and to date, only – Croat in boxing to challenge for a piece of the heavyweight crown? The only other heavyweight we heard about was Mario Preskar, but despite being talented, has since retired without ever receiving a title shot. Thus, does that make Mavrovic the first and only Croat to have fought for what was once the most coveted prize in sports? We don't hear much about heavyweights from that part of the globe. Figured I'd strike up something new. Please comment. Thanks guys!
George Chuvalo fought for the title twice. was even close in his titlefight against Terell. Chuvalo is not born in croatia though, his parents were both croatian
What do you make of Filip Hrgovic? Will he make history for Croatia and become his country's first heavyweight champion of the world?
It depends on how long it takes him to reach the top of the division and how much the heavyweight scene changes until then. He was in the ring with a few top heavyweights behind the scenes. He cut Haye up pretty badly and was Pulevs sparring partner in preparation for the Klitschko fight so he has some real experience under his belt despite just starting his pro career. If he moves up the ranks quickly enoguh he could probably knock off both Parker and Wilder but I don't fancy his chances against Joshua much although he may exceed my expectations.
That's where I was going too... If you count kickboxing, there's the Croatian Tiger: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Branko_Cikatić
Mavrovic had one of the most underrated chins in hw division, he took punches from Lennox Lewis for 12 rounds like nothing! At least Mercer tuck his chin and kept his hands up, Mavrovic at times was wide open and took them hard punches and didn't even flinch, crazy!
<<< I think he will win one of the belts, and is the best all around heavyweight prospect since Klitschko. http://boxrec.com/en/boxer/813758
Hrgovic has a rock for a chin, and it has been tested numbers times. He doesn't retreat or need to clinch when hit and is aggressive. Mavrovic only fought one puncher, and it was Lewis. Lewis actually changed his mind about trying to stop Mavrovic after taking a solid right hand later in the match. Clarification is needed, but I read that Lennox collapsed in his dressing room after this fight. Had it been 15 rounds who knows if the result changes or not.
Yes, I would love to seem him learn and do some infighting, he could be like a Eastern European Riddick Bowe... He has the chin and stamina to put a high workrate it seems