I think a prime Beterbiev breaks down any boxer who isn't outrageously skilled and/or powerful. Johnson was terrific but he was stopped a couple of times in his prime (granted it was by Walcott and Moore but still...) I think this will be competitive but i do think Johnson is likely to get caught at some point, start trading and then get stopped. Again we are talking a prime Beterbiev. The one who stopped Gvozdyk. Not the version now. The guys i would pick to beat Beterbiev are either tall boxers with extreme power like Foster or Spinks, quick boxers with extraordinary reflexes and power like Jones Jr, exceptional counter punchers like Moore and Toney etc. etc. I think slick boxers really struggle vs Beterbiev unless they are able to throw with enough force to keep Beterbiev honest. Beterbiev tko 11.
Seriously speaking, Johnson probably had the right blend of jab orientated, technically sharp, classic pure box-punching and slipping/countering at ring centre coupled with the physical strength and excellent short punching/infighting ability to tame Beterbiev on the slow retreat imo.
Hi Buddy. Just to say, I share your opinion, Johnson was indeed a very competent box-fighter, who fought in a stacked era, of greats and ATGs, and I believe his experience, nuance, and all round ability, will be more than enough to nullify anything Beterbiev has to offer. stay safe Tin-Ribs, always lifts my spirits when I see your name and posts, and I usually default to your way of thinking when I have to make my mind up on the many various match ups the forum throws up. Mike.
