^He appears to be just another hyped up prospect en route to an easy defense, but what I'm reading about the countepoints to my views are interesting.
It's arguable Povetkin is the best opponent Wlad has ever faced. He has very good offensive skills but his defensive flaws could make this an easier fight. Povetkin is not getting off 70 punches a round. wlad's size, jab, power, and foot movement will cut into his output. The clinches will also wear down Povetkin. He will facing someone much stronger than himself and it will be evident from the outset. Povetkin will put forth a courageous effort and remain competitive for 6 rounds before breaking down. Wlad stop him in 9.
Povetkin is not ready for Wlad yet, and fighting an easy opponent in Taurus Sykes didn't help him at all. He should have fought Audley Harrison instead, that would have helped him more to prepare for Klitschko (not that Audley is anywhere near as dangerous as Wlad, but at least he's tall). Plus Povetkin is very hitable, his chin will be put to a tough test in that fight...
I haven't seen much of Povetkin but from what i have seen i didn't think he was all that. Wlad stops him at this point imo.
Povetkin is not going to be a punching bag in this fight, he´ll come to wreck havoc. Wlad will still most likely come out on top. Since Povetkin usually moves forward and looks to beat his opponent up, I think Wlad will KO him.