One upset like that and he can bask in glory for a full year. I think he's getting underrated, and has a bigger chance than most people are saying, but yeah, no way am I saying he should actually have over 50% odds. Maybe 30%.
Not sure I'd say I'm outright picking him but he does have an excellent chance and Joshua will deserve full credit if he beats him (and Sasha will be his best scalp by far, including the more washed-up Klitschko)
AJ can try to copy Wlad as much as he wants, i don't think he has the discipline to implement that style over 12 rounds. Povetkin will force the pace eventually
I technically put 500 forum gold on it but do not think it will happen. Just more likely than odds indicate... I'm afraid old Povetkin won't have it in him to make it to the later rounds and retain an explosive barrage.
Joshua wins, but it's going to be a hell of a nick and tuck fight. People forget how few rounds Joshua has under his belt.
I don't think AJ is underestimating Povetkin at all. In fact, I think he knows Povetkin means business and if he makes a mistake his lights are in serious danger of getting turned out at any moment. I think he has a healthy respect for the threat Povetkin presents him and so he should. Even a the staredown at the weigh in you could tell that Povetkin didn't look at all intimidated and AJ even said he didn't see any signs at all of him being nervous when he stared into his eyes. Timestamped This content is protected Povetkin might be 39 years old and past his best, and at big height, weight, reach, and age disadvantages but he has skills, lots of experience under his belt, and he's still a very dangerous puncher who can close the distance quickly. This content is protected
Povetkins only chance is a clean ko. anything short results in a terrible decision or a british stoppage to save joshua. not saying he is the favorite, just saying he could win eleven rounds big and still get shutout on the cards.