I think it does bring out the best in him. However, at a certain age, the mind says one thing, the body another. Still, I am not saying it is so, but the possibility is definately there.
Both men looked ready at the press conference, having a little scruff with eachother, looked tense. Calzaghe knew what's coming, so does Kessler.. it's gonna be a WAR. :yep:bbb
The Joe Calzaghe in the Lacy fight never set his feet to land power punches, he never had to. Joe was so wary of Lacy's power that he never allowed himself the time to plant his feet and land hard until the last 2 rounds. By that stage, he must have been pretty exhausted and the power wouldn't be there so much as in the earlier rounds. The Joe Calzaghe in the Byron Mitchell & Sheika fights (amongst others) planted his feet and put everything into his digs. This was no time for pitty patty stuff. What happened to Mitchell in round 2, happened because power was what was needed. If Joe's winning a fight and is on top, we see the movement, the quick snaps, moving in and out so quickly. This is what we've seen mostly from Calzaghe because he's been so dominent. If we see this on the weekend, we see Joe cleverly outboxing Kessler, using the ring smartly. If we see Joe setting his feet in this fight then he's in trouble and it's desperation. It's not such a bad last resort as he has got a lot of power... certainly enough to make most SMW's hit the deck if he lands flush. But that's definately what I don't want to see as Kessler will win that particular battle.
I can only see Kessler winning this over the distance if age has caught up with Joe, which it hasn't. There's too much work, stamina, fitness, agility, punch output from Calzaghe. To outpoint Joe, Kessler has got to nail him every time JC threatens to open up his 3-4 punch flurries. I just can't see Mikkel consistantly being able to stop these.
Both fighters are masters of imposing their rhythm and dominating their fights. This will be a clash of styles and it will be a very interesting chess match until Calzaghe starts taking chances and goes to war. Then we will see what Kessler really is made of - I think his speed and precision will be enough to get him a UD. Both are very intelligent fighters who are able to up the pace and retaliate when hit. Both are very good at making the most of the opponents errors. I can't wait to see how this will turn out!
If he lands the clearer and harder punches, it will stop Joe's flurries, and joe wont be able to look so impressive. Kessler is also never gunning for a KO, but always acting calm and cautious. I don't see this endning in a KO, but I think it's reaaly hard to make a prediction as they both win their fights by imposing their will on the other boxers and control the fight. It could also end in a draw or spilt decision to Joe, because of his workrate.:think