I don't see him beating any of the elites between 160 and 175. He is to immobile to deal with Sergio. Ward, Bute, and Froch would make him look silly at 168. Chad Dawson, Jean Pascal, and Tavoris Cloud would roll over him at 175. He is a man without a division since Sergio moved in at 160.
Actually, at age 28, the full recovery of his physical skills is probably the smallest problem of all. A proper diet, and physical fitness are regular parts of the program at the Betty Ford Center. I'ts my understanding that Pavlik is in a 90 program. At such a young age he'll probably exit the program in better shape physically than he has been in years.
I'd like to think he could come back. He seems like a good guy. But I doubt it. Boxing requires 110% focus. I don't know if he can regain that focus in the time he has remaining in his career. But who knows. He definitely needs a new trainer.
I hope so, but first he must put the demons behind, and moving from Youngstown would be a serious yet beneficial step. But one step at a time, there are several things to sort out before he can get into camp.
Yes, but he must stay away from the slick boxer types. He had no business being in the ring with Sergio or BHop. Poor management.
Well, not a big deal to lose to Hopkins @ 170 when he'd never fought above middleweight. Also, Sergio Martinez is the 3rd best P4P and Pavlik won 4 rounds against him and dropped him once... So, I'd say he's got a decent chance.
of course he can. the ball is entirely in his court. whether the becomes champ again or falls off the reservation entirely is up to him...b/c its clear he has the ability to do both right now. everyone should want to see him bounce back.
he's fought above mw before. he actually has a very good record above mw. he also spent some time during training for sergio in rehab. but i agree, there's no reason to answer this in the negative.
Alcoholism isn't a choice. If he gets the help he needs, he'll have a chance to resurrect his career. I wish him all the best.
I wish he does. He was good to watch and had a good jab. He NEEDS to shred away his personal demons and get a better corner to start off in the right path. His fights with Miranda & Taylor 1 will always stay fresh in my mind. Great fights.
You keep telling yourself that... Whatever helps you cope with weak willpower. Alcoholism, like any form of addiction let out of control, is a character flaw. Since alcohol is legal and easily accessible, it's merely an accepted one.