: Why is Vitali's long lay-off not so significant in this case?

Agreed. Vitali is - despite his injuries - a hell of a fighter. His KO rate stands for itself. He'll win the fight against Peter and he would've won against any version of Wlad in his prime.

 

Why? Because people are stupid. In any other case ring rust is a major issue but since it's Vitali Klitschko you will be met with harsh words and criticism if you dare bring up the fact that ring rust could play a factor. You ever seen a sparring session? How can you compare that to a live-fire situation with Samuel Peter who is trying to KO you? This isn't some playful opponent who will laugh with you at the press conference and talk about how much he respects you. You can make fun of Samuel Peter all you want but this is a guy who is not thrilled about having to take this fight. He didn't want to be bothered with Vitali. He's gonna go in there and try to punish Vitali Klitschko and had this been 4 years ago he wouldn't have stood a chance but this isn't 4 years ago.

I'm gonna say it straight up. I am damn excited about seeing Vitali Klitschko back. These are the types of fights that make boxing worth watching. 2 big hitters going at it. The thing is that I just don't think you can overcome 4 years of inactivity and step into the ring with a Samuel Peter. Had Vitali fought at least one time in the past 4 years so we could gauge where he's at and what he's got left I'd be more inclined to pick him to win but he's coming in cold and rusty. Had it been a journeyman he was facing he could take a few rounds to get some of the kinks out without having to really worry about any incoming but Peter's gonna come out throwing bombs. There's no time for adjustment. Vitali will have to overcome whatever rust he has immediately and hope that his body can hold up against what will be a constant attack.

 

:good Top notch post, exactly how I feel. This fight will be just what the fans want, a live slugfest between two of the heaviest hitters the division has seen recent years, but in the end the younger, more active oppenent. The title of the fight should be "No room for old men", and oh yes, there will be blood.