Zab has matured, he is mentally sound and strong now, if he wasn't he would have folded compeltely against Mattheysse and Mabuza, but he didn't in both fights he dug deep and pulled out a win. Aside from his loss at 140 to Koysta, in a slightly premature stoppage (he should have been allowed to beat the count), all of his losses come to buys who were simply too big for him, he was a small guy at 147 and it was a testament to his ability that he actually was able to become the true 147 champ. Either way though, back at his natural weight, 140, I can't see anyone who can really challenge him a full 12 other than Bradley.
Skin of his teeth type of thing imo. Judah barely got by Mattheysse on a points decision, and he actually got hurt the round before he knocked Mabuza out, that's how he knocked Mabuza out imo, the bell went and Mabuza didn't have time to finish him, so he came out next round and got too reckless, left a spot for Judah to counter him. That fight was close to imo, there were a lot of swing rounds, and Judah was too inactive at times imo.
I'll be choosing Zab, this will be closer than most believe. Zab belongs at 140 and has been with the best of the best. He has the experience, but most importantly he has the maturity/focus he always lack inside and outside the ring. If Zab hurts you, trust me he will go in attack mode and Amir should be careful and not underestimate Zab's power or even speed. If Maidana was able to connect plenty of times then Zab will as well. If this fight goes the distance this fight could get very interesting for both fighters that have shown slowing down in some of their fights previously.
Khan's style of straight punching and Zab's backing off and Zab is going to take alot of shots going back and leave him off balance. Khan's speed is real faster than Floyd, faster combos than Floyd and at this stage of Zab's career Khan high output will be too much for Zab.
All of your points are absolutely valid! roach is a savage when it comes to ring tactics- however, it is usually Zab who beats Zab. I don't think he EVER shows up as the fighter in worse physical condition. Matching Zab and Khan skill for skill does Khan dominate in any category? I think Zab is the stronger, faster fighter who has had the better ring experience.If he can recreate his Floyd performance and push the effort into the later rounds I think Zab COULD (not saying he absolutely will) but he COULD box circles around khan all day.
However- its only when Zab feels like he is getting beat or that he can't win that he actually loses. He said against Cotto he had never been hit so hard and it was disheartening. I could understand that. Khan doesnt crack like a 147 cotto. and I dont think he is as fast as a 2000 mayweather!
im just happy 2 guys that are world class and world champions are fighting each other , regardless of who wins, there has been no dumb ass demands that would block it...this fight was put together very quickly and is here almost as fast for guys of their stature...