Pavlik vs Pirog being discussed for the fall

From a Pirog interview I just read, sounds like they are still negotiating.

Any updates?

 

I read the interview, but I have nothing to report except my own speculation. I honestly do not think there is anything to negotiate.

Pavlik has had trouble making 160 since very early in his career. For example, from 2003-2005 KP fought 12 times. Only two of those fights happened at 160. The other 10 were above the middleweight limit.

In 2006 Kelly fought just twice. Only the McKart fight happened at 160. The other fight was a catch weight affair in preparation to move to 168. The title eliminator with Zertuche came up, and KP stayed at 160.

In 2008 Pav fought 3 times. Only one of those fights happened at 160.

Given the history, and given the absolute hell Pavlik put himself through to make 160 for the Martinez fight, I think it's a safe bet that he will move up.

If I were advising Pavlik, I would suggest he tell Pirog "168, or go away." Pirog would be a damn fool to take the fight at 168. The middleweight division is getting hot, and a loss to a guy many people think is on the back side of his career would bring Pirog's momentum to a screeching hault.

 

This will be an awsome fight. I'd be very interested to see how his style works against a stalking power puncher like Pavlik. I'll also be interested in how Pirog handles himself after winning the title. Part of me is concerned with some of his comments about feeling slightly empty or not being as happy that he thought he'd be after winning the title. Perhaps this is the sign of a nerotic perfectionist....or perhaps its a sign that he might be questioning his own efforts or sacrafices...if this is the case look for his motivation and focus to maybe not be as good as they were before.

 

Read the thread. This fight will not happen.