Wasn't a bad fight really. Had it a shutout for Povetkin. Rudenko landed a few decent replies across the fight but that's about it. He'd be a good fight for Whyte I think. Povetkin doesn't look to have slowed much really. His feet looked quick when needed and the way he explodes out of crouched positions will make him dangerous to anyone. His lack of world title makes him a very unattractive opponent mind you.
Great to see the monster back. Should really be a title belt holder by now alongside Fury, Parker and Browne. Saying that, sometimes a break away from boxing can do a fighter a world of good, making them hungrier, angrier and fresher. This looks like this is the case with Povetkin. He now has a point to prove and is ready to absolutely smash all the frauds blocking his path to pieces.
Agree with paddygarcias points mostly - have to add that Rudenko is def. a tough competitor, think he should have been given atleast a warning for holding, but impressed with his toughness and heart
Rudenko is no worse than any one of Wilders farcical title defenses. European level - Gatekeeper. Literally no better or worse than Duhaupas or Szpilka.
Povetkin should have lost by KO, then Wilder could possibly have thought that he's shot and call him out. This version of Povetkin still makes Wilder choose the fastest car from his fleet of vehicles and hit the closest Alabama highway.