What do ESB guys think: is Povetkin better or worse as a result of Atlas's training? The argument favoring Atlas's training is that Sasha's defense is now better. He's not getting tagged as much as before. Possibly Povetkin's balance has improved as well. He may be a smarter, more effective fighter. The argument against Atlas's influence is that, now, Sasha may be fighting in a style that does not come naturally to him. Some believe that Povetkin is a natural offensive fighter, a guy who's at his best when he unleashes overwhelming attacks. Povetkin possibly is less effective now that he is restraining himself in the ring. Of one thing we can all be certain: Atlas's decision to pull Povetkin out of the Klitschko fight last year was the correct decision. By avoiding Klitschko, Povetkin has gone on to win a piece of the world title, and his experience and marketability are now that much greater. If and when the Povetkin-Klitschko fight occurs, Sasha will make that much more money, and have a slightly greater chance at winning.
I dunno. Povetkin sure hasn't progressed much since his Byrd or Chambers fights except that he lowered his punch output making him look less an amateur boxer. His hand speed is pretty freaking amazing though for such a rather flabby dude.
Povetkin looked good at the beginning of the fight. He had a good defense, good combos, overall he looked better than before. But after that he slowed down. Wasnt active as much all because Atlas told him to stay on the outside. I dont think it was a good idea as Pov is an inside fighter.
