Are you saying Kessler showed his better skill in a competetive loss to Joe Cal? Look at the skill Taylor showed in wins against defensive minded fighters like Hopkins and Wright. I will agree at times he has looked vulnerable but all fighters have flaws its the ability to overcome, hide, or endure these flaws that makes great fighters.
I dont think you can question the confidence of a World Champion it kind of absurd. However, al ot of fighters character is revealed after a loss. Lets be honest everyone in boxing loses (rare exceptions) and that is the reason arm chair fighters constantly dismiss fighters as yesterdays news. I dont know if Taylor can overcome Pavlik strenghts in the rematch.
I don't think Pavlik has a shot in hell against Calzaghe. On that note;I do believe a Pavlik/Kessler fight would be closer than most think. Pavlik can easily move up in weight,without losing his power - hell,he'll probably gain more power,as Pavlik has a lengthy build,easily capable of fighting at 175 or higher. Pavlik's right hand is no joke,and his jab is underrated. I would favor Kessler slightly,but by no means would this fight be a pushover in favor of Kessler. I would love to see this fight!
Good question however alot of nuthuggers have problems with logic. Pavlik is bigger, stronger, and more intelligent. Last nite proved quite abit
Firstly, Pavlik is NOT 6'3" - toe to toe with Taylor they looked the same height, Taylor is 6'1" - Pavlik could well be 6'1 1/2" tops. Kessler is bigger in every way other than height than Pavlik; bigger chest, thicker arms, waist, wider back, more natural muscle, a better athlete. Jermain Taylor is the biggest middleweight in history. Taylor is bigger and more athletic than both Pavlik and Calzaghe. He (Taylor) and Kessler are evenly matched. Calzaghe is the smallest of these four, but by far the best (at this point). Pavlik may well go down as a great and better than the other three. [/some random musings]
pavlik is taller, but kessler has a bigger built. look at the weigh in kessler has a heavier muscle mass.