Chad Dawson vs Joe Calzaghe

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I'm still taking Dawson over Calzaghe at 175, although I'm more impressed by Calzaghe by the minute. I thought he'd beat Kessler provided he didn't get old overnight, but man he fought sensationally.

Still, it's a totally different matchup of styles. Calzaghe was able to pressure the stationary Kessler, who moves only forward and backward with no upper body movement, while Dawson is an entirely different creature.

Dawson would have advantages in size, reach, speed, power, footwork and defense. His reflexes and lateral movement are best of any active fighter I've seen at those weights. I'm not sure there's anyone close. The key would be his right hand, as he's a converted southpaw.

Calzaghe will be taking jabs, and then when he moves in, Dawson will move and counter. Joe doesn't hit hard enough -- and definitely not at 175 -- to be a favorite against Dawson.

Of course, he still might win based on tenacity, experience and heart. I'd say 65/35 Dawson, likely to win 7-5/8-4.

Crazy as it may sound, I think -- if he carried his power north -- Kessler might be a more dangerous opponent for Dawson. His ability to place right hands might result in a KO of a fighter who has shown a vulnerability to well-placed right hands.

 

After Joe clearly showing desire not to fight anyone but Hopkins in the post-Bika fight interview, so it's crystal clear they want to fight each other. Bad Chad Dawson is calling out for Antonio Tarver who is coming back from the Hopkins one-sided loss so see where Dawson is... Get a ticket and wait in the line, buddy.

 

STFU Plastic Paddy

B-Hop = Ring #1 LHW, much more $$$, greater for his legacy :deal

Chad Dawson = NKOTB :deal