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Chagaev pretty much got mauled by Matt Skeleton 3years ago, so no, Povetkin maybe though although he's been treading water the last 3years too
Third best heavyweight in the past eight years is a rather arguable thing, I would say. Not a thing that likely would've occurred to me to wonder about without this thread, I don't think. These guys would have as good a case as anybody else, I guess. Well, no, actually, Chagaev's having the actual WBA title, without the presence of a "super" titlist and beating an actual reigning champ, and, imo, just being a flat-out better fighter than Povetkin (at his best) wouldn't be enough to have Povetkin above Chagaev if he wins, for me, now that I think about it. The best Chagaev against the best Povetkin, let alone the one I saw last would see me picking Chagaev without much hesitation.
Fight between Adamek and Haye should be for the #3 spot. Till Vitaly vs Adamek the winner of Chagaev-Povetkin will be the #3 though.
I think it's quite clearly Byrd for the best after the two bros. Then toney might have a good case, but the likes of ruiz, rahman all deserve a mention.
I'm going to throw Lamon Brewster's name out there. He did after all beat Wlad and a few other good heavyweights, and really only started losing big when he was past it. I'd certainly rate him higher than Chagaev who's only major win is Valuev, and possibly higher than povetkin who's only big wins in 20 fights are over Eddie Chambers and an aged Byrd.
Povetkin should whip Chagaev at this stage. Not an issue of age, but an issue of the other being worn-out from tough fights, injuries and illnesses. If Chagaev manages to pull off a win, I'll give him his dues as one of the better heavyweights in recent times.
