I know a fan boy will claim he easily beats this and that champ. but he probably loses to all other beltholders at 175 unless you count interim champ pascal who he beats for a third time. Kovalev vs Canelo is 50/50 take that fight and get PAID for once.
Almost 0 chances against Bivol, not because Kovalev is not skillful enough, but because of Bivol's great defensive skills and moving.He will put pressure on Kovalev, get him tired and finish him or comfortably take the UD.With Gvozdyk, more chances to eat the big punch, and more chances to land it.Beterbiev is at the end, Beter has the biggest chance from all to knock him out early, but also biggest chance to be in that position.
Just take the Canelo money and retire. Kovalev is done, he's been done for a while now. Let's not kid ourselves, Yarde was on the brink of victory but not because he was good...rather because Kovalev is shot to pieces and Yarde had a decent enough chin to hang on in there. The other champions send him to sleep.
They showed all the champions during the fight and I think there are 4 or 5, all Russian guys. All good fighters, don't get me wrong, but still ridiculous
I don't think he can anymore... Showed his fighting heart to make it through that 8th and get the win.... I like kovalev but he is near the end... Beterbiev is 50/50 whoever lands first.. Winnable for both Gvodzyk and bivol would take kovalev at this point I think... A few years ago I'd have picked kovalev... His weaknesses are there to see now.
His best chance is against Beterbiev due to styles, as Beterbiev is so open coming in. That said, I'd still go with Beterbiev to flatten him within the first four rounds. Gvozdyk and Bivol would sharpshoot Kovalev pretty badly at this stage. Kovalev is done at the divisional elite level. Legs, timing, speed, and ability to generate the krushing power he used to aren't there. His saving grace is the jab and control from long-range.
I look at SK now as the elder statesman of the division.. He'd win rounds but ultimately lose to the other 3 elite guys of 175 IMO He is taking a bit too much damage for my liking & it all adds up.. but regardless, what a supreme fighter he has been over the years.. a huge ring presence & a joy to follow down the years..
I think he loses to all of them, doubt he attempts to unify he'll attempt to go for Canelo much more money and less risk.