This might not be popular on this forum but I'd take Povetkin. He fought in the era of modern superathletes, and although Tunney's footwork and ring IQ were super advanced for the 20s, I think Povetkin wouldn't give him anything, he'd cut the ring and force exchanges in mid-range where he can land those fight-altering shots. Greb did it, and I think Povetkin's style is probably sharper, more compact, less messy, and more accurate than Greb's. I feel like he probably hits harder too. I think his body shots would neutralize Tunney's movement and he'd shock Tunney with how quickly he generates power on left hooks and overhand rights. I'd guess Tunney might be able to control range and frustrate Povetkin for a round or two, but once Povetkin's body work adds up (like Greb's did) and he forces exchanges, he'd land a decisive hook or uppercut. Povetkin KO 8. Also btw Tunney is way higher than Povetkin in an all-time ranking. I just don't think he'd make it in a bout.
Povetkin. Tunney was great but he isn't proven vs punchers. If you can't keep a puncher off you with power of your own, you can't beat the puncher. Povetkin will eventually catch and stop him late. And obviously Tunney is the much greater fighter but styles make fights.
So I'll take Povetkin to catch up to him and knock him out. We saw Povetkin against Wlad, who has a similar style to Tunney in using his feet and jab to control opponents. Wlad wrecked Povetkin. However, Wlad is astronomically bigger than Tunney, hits much much harder, is more skilled (Iwould argue) and also clinched the life out of Povetkin. So why would I pick Sasha in this one? Because Povetkin was able to close the bigger man down and get close. Tunney does not have Wlad's clinch, and nor does he have the power to wreck Sasha when he comes in. Povetkin will be able to do that characteristic little bobbing rush he does against opponents to get close, and then Tunney is slugging it out with a bigger, tougher, harder hitting man. Not a good place for him.
