I think Pulev is in with a real chance here. Excellent Jab, Great bodywork, isn't a plodding fighter or a stationary target, Also has a long reach, very good movement... Add to that Wlad's low workrate & output, the fact that he doesn't have an uppercut to his name, and that he isn't fighting a stiff = A potentially tough/awkward fight for Wlad. Pulev is very 'Live', IMO. If he outpointed Wlad I wouldn't be surprised. Thoughts/opinions?
I also think Pulev wins. I stand to be slated if we get the normal Wlad domination. But Puleve is a REAL guy. I think it will be a shock for Wlad when he gets going. Ustinov and Wlad are a toally different propersition but though I am at pains to agree with Don charles, it was highly impressive how Pulev beat Ustinov.
Pulev looks in good shape but I'm afraid it'll be another tiresome jab jab grab affair with perhaps a late stoppage/pulev failed to come out from his corner. Fair play to pulev he's worked hard to get his shot but I don't see him bringing anything new to the table, he's not awkward, fast, or powerful enough to beat wlad.
Wlad will likely win on points although Pulev should test him. Wlad looked disinterested in his last fight early doors so Pulev may wish to exploit that (though his style wouldn't fit that approach). If Pulev tests Wlad and roughs him up inside (if he's allowed to) then that may plant seeds of doubt in Wlad's mind going forward. If Pulev does win then he only becomes IBF and lineal champion- all of the other belts are declared vacant.
Pulev is a really good boxer and one of the best Wladimir faced the last couple of years, but in almost every aspect the lesser of the two. He has a very good jab, Wlad has a better one. He has good positioning, Wlad positions better. He has a decent punch, Wlad has a murderous punch. He has good defence, Wlad has excellent defence. Problem with Pulev is that he doesn't have anything to really trouble Klit with. Even if he does very good he's still going to lose a clear decision. He has to completely trow his style overboard to have a chance, because he's not going to outjab and outbox Wlad. He needs to take a page out of the Wlad beaters book and try to maul his way towards victory, for wich he doesn't really have the punch and the chin.
I tend to agree with this summation. I don't think Pulev's style matches up very well to Wlad's. Although Pulev will put up a decent account of himself, I think Wlad would have to have a serious off night or get old overnight or make a calamatous mistake to lose here.