He is an awkward fighter, herky jerky fighter who is hard to find a rhythm against. He's fighting in his backyard with a trainer who gives him confidence. He has never not been competitive, and he has a wealth of experience in big fights. I have a feeling there will be some surprises in this fight.
The suprise maybe that kovalev knocks him out early, because I think everyone expects a pretty close fight until later on, when KRUSHER comes on stronger.
I have been watching a lot of Pascal lately and I tend to agree with the OP. His ambush style has me concerned. The betting lines are way out of line in Kovalev's favor.
I was thinking about this too. Pascal seemed rejuvenated and fighting better with Rj. But Kov showed he can box as well, not just looking to knock heads off, so he can make it a long night for Pascal. But yea, Pascal is a fearless dude, fights like a poorman's version of Rj in his heyday. Especially if he uses angles on Kov. Pascal only seemed to get better since losing to Bhops. He was also sparring with Beterbiev, who might of helped him prepare for Kov.
He's got a punchers chance, he's sneaky and Kovalev has shown he can be caught by sneaky fighters like Darnell Boone. But I suspect despite the odd flashy shot from Pascal, Kovalev will grind him down. Pascal doesn't have great stamina, he likes to fight in spurts and Kovalev will apply constant pressure not allowing him to rest and eventually stop a tired Pascal.
You mean he might say something to hurt his feelings? Yep, because the biggest and hardest hitting fighter is always the best!! atsch :smoke
Is that what I said? No. But it matters in this fight. Pascal is like Hopkins, he came up in weight. Kovalev is coming down. Pascal is not knocking Kovalev out.
That's a thought that the Kovalev fanboys don't wanna entertain. It could happen and I wouldn't be surprised one bit.
Pascal has poor stamina, and is hittable. Not a good combination against someone like Kovalev. Kovalev should trap Pascal against the ropes and work his body early, so Pascal will tire out sooner, stopping him by the mid rounds.