Manny Pacquiao vs. Joshua Clottey: In-Depth Preview of The Event

Manny "Pac Man" Pacquiao

Born: Bukidnon, Philippines
Resides: General Santos City, Philippines
Height: 5' 6 1/2"
Reach: 67"
Current World Titles Held: WBO Welterweight (147 lbs.), Ring Magazine Junior Welterweight (140 lbs.)
Former World Titles Held: WBC Lightweight (135 lbs.), Ring Magazine, WBC Super Featherweight (130 lbs.), Ring Magazine Featherweight (126 lbs.), IBF Super Bantamweight (122 lbs.), WBC Flyweight (112 lbs.)
Professional Record: 50-3-2, 38 KOs
Record in World Title Fights: 10-1-2, 9 KOs
Record at Welterweight: 2-0, 2 KOs
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 3-1-1

Notable Wins: TKO12 Miguel Cotto, TKO2 Ricky Hatton, TKO8 Oscar De La Hoya
Notable Losses: UD12 Erik Morales I, KO3 Medgoen Singsurat

Joshua "Grand Master" Clottey

Born: Accra, Ghana
Resides: Bronx, New York, United States
Height: 5' 8"
Reach: 70"
Current World Titles Held: None
Former World Titles Held: IBF Welterweight
Professional Record: 35-3, 20 KOs
Record in World Title Fights: 1-2
Record at Welterweight: 10-3, 1 No Contest
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 2-2

Notable Wins: TD9 Zab Judah, UD10 Diego Corrales, MD12 Richard Gutierrez
Notable Losses: SD12 Miguel Cotto, UD12 Antonio Margarito, DQ11 Carlos Baldomir

Analysis:

Boxing fans worldwide had March 13, 2010 circled on their calendars as the night when Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather would do battle to determine supremacy of the ring and the box office. The former fell apart, leaving the first part of the latter to proceed on the same date with a much different opponent in the form of Joshua Clottey.

You can excuse some observers for comparing Clottey to someone hitting the lottery, because in some ways, he really did hit the jackpot by landing this fight. Coming off a loss to Miguel Cotto, albeit a narrow one that went to the scorecards, there was no logical reason to think the man known as Grand Master would end up facing the top draw in the sport.

Clottey is well respected in the boxing community but a relative unknown to the mainstream sports world. His profile will get a huge boost if he manages to find a way to upset Pacquiao, but that could be easier said than done since the Filipino fireball hasn't tasted defeat in almost five years.

Pacquiao took some hits to his image for his unwillingness to submit to Mayweather's drug testing demands, and there are legitimate questions about whether his mind may be more focused on Floyd or his political ambitions than Clottey. But even if his mental game isn't at 100 percent, he has the widest safety net of any boxer alive thanks to his natural talent, extensive world title fight experience and the savvy planning of trainer Freddie Roach.

The venue almost deserves mention as a third personality for this fight as it happens to be Cowboys Stadium, Jerry Jones' billion-dollar sports palace. Over 45,000 fans are expected to be on hand to watch the action unfold, most of whom will be pulling for Pacquiao to add another win to his ever-growing total.

Pacquiao's Winning Strategy: Push the Pedal Down and Keep It There

With his victories over Oscar De La Hoya and Cotto, Pacquiao provided definitive answers to anyone who doubted whether he'd be able to handle himself at welterweight after campaigning at much lower weight classes for most of his career. Even so, he's going to be facing an opponent who has height and reach advantages and is naturally bigger to boot.

Manny has been able to neutralize similar edges in the past by utilizing his superior hand speed and movement, dictating the tempo and the range of the action. Pacquiao will want to do that right from the opening bell against Clottey, as Cotto proved it's easier to get to the Grand Master early before he has time to get settled in.

That doesn't mean it should always be a race to see who gets off first for the Pac Man. Clottey can be susceptible to counters when he tries to set up his shots, and Pacquiao can deliver them from times and places that no one else can manage.

Regardless if he's taking the lead or countering, Pacquiao should push the pace high and not let up. When he combines the power of a true welterweight with the activity level of a smaller guy, it poses a problem that no one has been able to solve.

Clottey's Winning Strategy: Cover Up, Then Muscle Up

Mayweather's elusiveness may have given Pacquiao fits, but Clottey may present an equally tough defensive challenge thanks to his high, tight guard. He is very effective at picking off punches with his arms, causing opponents to waste energy on shots that never reach their target.

Conventional wisdom would suggest that Clottey should use his longer arms to jab and keep the fight on the outside, but standard operating procedure can pretty much be thrown out when it comes to a boxer like Pacquiao. Instead, Clottey should use the jab to move closer, as his uppercut is one of his more impressive weapons.

The Grand Master isn't known as a vicious knockout puncher, but he is strong and accurate and can really wear opponents down over time. He's got to pick his spots carefully against Pacquiao, but he seems heady enough to stay patient and look for his openings.

Weathering an early storm and going for the win later isn't easy against a whirlwind like Pacquiao. But it beats the alternative, which is trying to match Manny punch for punch and having the referee say he's seen enough.

Posted by The Franchise

Mikkel Kessler vs. Andre Ward: Super Six In-Depth Preview

"The Viking Warrior" Mikkel Kessler

Birthplace: Copenhagen, Denmark
Resides: Monaco
Height: 6' 1"
Reach: 73"
Current World Titles Held: WBA Super Middleweight (168 lbs.)
Former World Titles Held: WBC Super Middleweight
Professional Record: 42-1, 32 KOs
Record in World Title Fights: 8-1, 6 KOs
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 4-1
Record at 168 lbs.: 26-1, 22 KOs

Notable Wins: UD12 Librado Andrade, KO3 Markus Beyer, UD12 Anthony Mundine
Notable Loss: UD12 Joe Calzaghe

Andre "S.O.G." Ward

Birthplace: San Francisco, California
Resides: Oakland, California
Height: 6' 1"
Reach: 73"
Current World Titles Held: None
Former World Titles Held: None
Professional Record: 20-0, 13 KOs
Record in World Title Fights: First world title fight
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 2-0
Record at 168 lbs.: 11-0, 7 KOs

Notable Wins: UD12 Edison Miranda, TKO7 Rubin Williams

Analysis:

It may not seem like it right now, but the boxing world isn't on hold while it waits for Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather to decide if and when they are going to fight each other. Hardcore enthusiasts know there are a number of intriguing fights in the next few months - and the final first stage fight in the Super Six World Boxing Classic definitely qualifies.

Though Mikkel Kessler has fought most of his career in his native Denmark, he isn't viewed with as much suspicion by American fans as some of his European contemporaries. That's because the hard-punching yet technically solid Viking Warrior has taken on some solid competition and come out on top. His lone loss came while giving a prime Joe Calzaghe a good battle, and that's no easy task.

Andre Ward isn't at the same virtuoso level of the sport as Mayweather, but he does possess a similar ability to make aspects of the game look smooth and effortless. He's got very fast hands and is comfortable fighting in either an orthodox or southpaw stance. Ward's undefeated record includes just one bout that seemed like a true test, when he easily outpointed slugger Edison Miranda earlier this year.

Both men are well-rounded, but that doesn't mean the shape of the fight won't favor one more than the other. If Kessler can use his experience to turn it into a slugfest, he looks to have the upper hand, as Ward has questions about his power and a sometimes unreliable chin. S.O.G. probably wouldn't mind 12 rounds of boxing, because his youth and athleticism would be bigger factors.

Ward can take some solace in the fact that the first two fights in the World Boxing Classic were won by the men fighting in front of their home fans, and he'll be right in his backyard in Oakland. This will be Kessler's first appearance in the U.S., but he did face Calzaghe in Wales and has enough rounds under his belt that it's unlikely that he'll be rattled.

Kessler's Winning Strategy: Get Inside

Usually it's a size differential that makes it imperative for one fighter to close the range, but in this case Kessler and his opponent are almost identical in all areas of the tale of the tape. The Viking Warrior has a good jab and enough skill to box from the outside, yet staying in Ward's face still seems like the sounder plan.

Kessler throws great uppercuts and body shots, both of which are best utilized in tight. As mentioned above, Ward may not have enough pop to keep Kessler honest, and if that's the case, Mikkel should look to back his man up against the ropes and attack with impunity.

Logic suggests that if this fight ends in a knockout, it's going to be Kessler who has his hand raised. The chances of that happening are that much greater if Mikkel can keep the average distance closer than Andre would like.

Ward's Winning Strategy: Let Your Hands Go

Stylistically, Ward doesn't bear that much resemblance to Calzaghe. But the only man to beat Kessler did lay out a game plan that he can use to earn a victory, providing he has the heart to pull it off.

JoeCal flummoxed Kessler at times with combination punching when he didn't expect it, capitalizing on his ability to get off first. Ward should be able to do that comfortably from the outside, using his jab and firing immediate follow-up punches. He'll want to do the same on the inside even though there is some risk involved due to Kessler's heavy hands.

What he should try to avoid is holding as often as he did against Miranda, because that won't cut it against the Viking Warrior. Outworking the other man seems like the way to go here, and Ward has to have the conviction that a high activity level will pile up the points and have him ahead on the cards at the end of 12 rounds.

Posted by The Franchise

Manny Pacquiao vs. Miguel Cotto: In-Depth Preview

Manny "Pac Man" Pacquiao

Born: Bukidnon, Philippines
Resides: General Santos City, Philippines
Height: 5' 6 1/2"
Reach: 67"
Current World Titles Held: Ring Magazine Junior Welterweight (140 lbs.)
Former World Titles Held: WBC Lightweight (135 lbs.), Ring Magazine, WBC Super Featherweight (130 lbs.), Ring Magazine Featherweight (126 lbs.), IBF Super Bantamweight (122 lbs.), WBC Flyweight (112 lbs.)
Professional Record: 49-3-2, 37 KOs
Record in World Title Fights: 9-1-2, 8 KOs
Record at Welterweight: 1-0, 1 KO
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 3-1-1

Notable Wins: TKO2 Ricky Hatton, TKO8 Oscar De La Hoya, SD12 Juan Manuel Marquez II
Notable Losses: UD12 Erik Morales I, KO3 Medgoen Singsurat

Miguel Cotto

Born: Caguas, Puerto Rico
Resides: Caguas, Puerto Rico
Height: 5' 7"
Reach: 67"
Current World Titles Held: WBO Welterweight (147 lbs.)
Former World Titles Held: WBA Welterweight (147 lbs.), WBO Light Welterweight (140 lbs.)
Professional Record: 34-1, 27 KOs
Record in World Title Fights: 14-1, 11 KOs
Record at Welterweight: 8-1, 6 KOs
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 4-0

Notable Wins: SD12 Joshua Clottey, UD12 Shane Mosley, TKO11 Zab Judah
Notable Loss: TKO11 Antonio Margarito

Analysis:

Promoter Bob Arum couldn't have planned for things to work out more perfectly than this: two of his Top Rank fighters facing off against each other in one of the biggest boxing matches of 2009.

Always appreciated by serious boxing fans and beloved by his Filipino people, Pacquiao blossomed into a mainstream star over the last two years with high profile knockouts of Ricky Hatton and Oscar De La Hoya. He's come a long way since his days as an exciting yet one-dimensional slugger, and his continued development has him justifiably earning consideration as the top pound-for-pound boxer in the world.

His opponent will be stepping into the brightest spotlight of his career as he attempts to etch his name onto the list of Puerto Rican legends. Cotto's career was sidetracked a bit when he was stopped in July of 2008 by Antonio Margarito, but he got himself back on track earlier this year by knocking out overmatched Michael Jennings and gutting out a tough split decision over Joshua Clottey.

Though both men have world class boxing skills, their offense-first mentalities and high KO percentages suggest an entertaining affair for as long as it lasts. Pacquiao has nearly unparalleled hand speed to go with nimble feet, but Cotto is a legitimate welterweight - in contrast to the smaller Hatton and weight-drained De La Hoya that Pac Man faced - who isn't exactly a slouch in the quickness department and will almost certainly hit Pacquiao as hard as he's ever been hit.

The road to this bout hasn't been 100 percent smooth, with Pacquiao dealing with an eventful camp and Cotto continuing to adjust to having relatively inexperienced Joe Santiago as lead trainer role after uncle Evangelista Cotto filled that role for most of his career. But each man has dealt with distractions successfully in the past, and smart money says both will draw enough extra energy from their vocal ethnic contingents to be in top form come fight night.

One interesting footnote is that even though the contracted fight weight is 145 pounds, Cotto's WBO welterweight belt will be on the line. That gives Pacquiao a chance to join De La Hoya as the only boxers ever to hold major world titles in six different divisions.

Pacquiao's Winning Strategy: Keep the Action in the Center of the Ring

Perhaps only Floyd Mayweather has quicker hands than Pacquiao, something a shell-shocked De La Hoya found out the hard way. Manny also has knockout power in both hands thanks to the development of a dangerous right hook to go with his cannon left, and so far it's translated to higher weights.

The problem with relying on just those traits this time is that Cotto is a naturally bigger man with a high boxing IQ, and he's not going to stand around and be Pac Man's punching bag. If Pacquiao gets lured into exchanges in tight spaces, Cotto has more than enough pop to make him pay.

Manny will need to use his lateral movement and increasingly impressive ring awareness to avoid getting trapped in the corners or along the ropes. Out in space, Pacquiao's fast hands and feet can be used to their greatest effect, and no one has found the answer for them in years.

Cotto's Winning Strategy: Cut Off the Ring and Attack the Body

Finding and catching Pacquiao seems to be a lot harder than it used to be, but Cotto is better equipped for the challenge than most. He's likely to have livelier legs than either of Pac Man's last two big name foes, and he's excellent at applying effective pressure.

Cotto is also an accomplished body puncher, something that can sap the quickness out of anyone. Concentrating on the body is never a bad idea, but against Pacquiao it could turn out to be especially vital for neutralizing his speed.

With Pacquiao likely to be able to get off first any time he wants, Cotto needs to get in tight so he can bring his size and power to bear. The best way to do that is to cut off Manny's escape routes so he can't stick and move. If Cotto can make Pacquiao fight with his back against the ropes, he'll be able to find out if Pac Man can take shots from a true welterweight – and he just may like the answer.

Posted by The Franchise

Carl Froch vs. Andre Dirrell: Super Six In-Depth Preview

Carl "The Cobra" Froch

Birthplace: Nottingham, England
Resides: Nottingham, England
Height: 6' 1"
Reach: 74 1/2"
Current World Titles Held: WBC Super Middleweight (168 lbs.)
Former World Titles Held: None
Professional Record: 25-0, 20 KOs
Record in World Title Fights: 2-0, 1 KO
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 4-0
Record at 168 lbs.: 16-0

Notable Wins: TKO12 Jermain Taylor, UD12 Jean Pascal

"The Matrix" Andre Dirrell

Birthplace: Flint, Michigan
Resides: Flint, Michigan
Height: 6' 2"
Reach: 75"
Current World Titles Held: None
Former World Titles Held: None
Professional Record: 18-0, 13 KOs
Record in World Title Fights: No previous title fights
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: None
Record at 168 lbs.: 16-0

Notable Wins: TKO6 Victor Oganov

Analysis:

For those who care about the sanctioning body titles up for grabs in the Super Six super middleweight tournament, this will be the first time one of them is on the line. Reigning WBC champion Froch won his strap by beating Jean Pascal last December, and he'll defend it against a man who's never been in a spot like this - or anything close - in Dirrell.

Froch has a unique claim to fame among the Super Six in that he's already beaten one of them, knocking out Jermain Taylor in dramatic fashion six months ago. Down on two of the three scorecards and having already shaken off a third-round knockdown, The Cobra rallied to stop Taylor with just 14 seconds left in the fight.

In contrast, Dirrell isn't taking a step up in competition as much as he's taking a leap. The 2004 Olympic middleweight bronze medalist has dazzling athleticism and tons of potential, but he's never had to deal with the kind of quality he'll be facing as long as he hangs around in the tournament.

Direll himself has broken down the fight as his speed versus Froch's power, but that's probably oversimplifying things, because he has some pop, and Froch isn't exactly a plodder. The Cobra has also demonstrated a sturdy chin and championship-caliber heart; the next time Dirrell has to show what he has in either of those categories will be his first.

The other factor that can't be overlooked is that Froch will practically be fighting in his backyard in Nottingham's Trent FM Arena, also the site of his victory over Pascal. All of Dirrell's fights have come on U.S. soil, so he'll have to be mentally prepared for having a hot crowd solidly in the corner of his opponent.

Froch's Winning Strategy: Don't Wait

No one can find fault with Froch's assertion that Dirrell has never fought anyone of his caliber, so his pre-fight confidence is understandable. He can also feel good about the fact that he's shown in his last two fights that he is able to handle guys with really quick hands (Pascal), and that he has the power to win even if he's down on points (Taylor).

Indeed, he may be the hardest single-shot puncher among the Super Six. That doesn't mean he can afford to sit back and wait for his spot too long, though, because Dirrell is an entirely different animal than his two previous victims.

Dirrell is more technically sound than Pascal, and his young legs aren't likely to fade on him like Taylor's did. He'll also gain confidence from every round he wins or even fights competitively.

The Cobra's best bet will be to make Dirrell feel his power early and stay in his face. Winning the initial rounds will keep the crowd excited, give his younger foe some self-doubt and make the knockout shot he's looking for later on more likely to come from opportunity rather than desperation.

Dirrell's Winning Strategy: Keep Things Unpredictable

Even Froch himself would probably have to admit that Dirrell has the faster hands. The Matrix earned his nickname with his ability to get off first and throw truly ridiculous combinations that look like they came straight out of a video game.

But boxing is much more than a hand speed competition, and Froch is both crafty and sturdy. He's not likely to wilt under simple volume and he's too dangerous to stand in front of for too long, especially with Dirrell's whiskers so untested.

Fortunately for Dirrell, he has more tricks up his sleeve. Listed as a southpaw, he's actually adept at fighting from either stance and is fond of switching numerous times over the course of a fight. He's capable of some nifty moves with his feet too, hopping in and out and leaving opponents flailing.

Dirrell can't worry about proving himself or trying to impress anyone. He'll find success if he can keep Froch guessing by continually changing the distance, pace and his stance, and yes, unleashing his long combos when he gets a chance. Froch will be the best boxer Dirrell has seen, but The Matrix can win if he gives the champ something he's never seen before either.

Posted by The Franchise

Arthur Abraham vs. Jermain Taylor: Super Six In-Depth Preview

"King" Arthur Abraham

Birthplace: Yerevan, Armenia
Resides: Berlin, Germany
Height: 5' 10"
Reach: 72"
Current Titles Held: None
Former Titles Held: IBF Middleweight (160 lbs.)
Professional Record: 30-0, 24 KOs
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 8-0
Record at 168 lbs.: 6-0

Notable Wins: TKO4 Edison Miranda II, UD12 Edison Miranda I, KO5 Kingsley Ikeke

Jermain "Bad Intentions" Taylor

Birthplace: Little Rock, Arkansas
Resides: Little Rock, Arkansas
Height: 5' 11"
Reach: 74 1/2"
Current Titles Held: None
Former Titles Held: WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO, Ring Magazine Middleweight (160 lbs.)
Professional Record: 28-3-1, 17 KOs
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 7-2-1
Record at 168 lbs.: 1-1

Notable Wins: UD12 Bernard Hopkins II, SD12 Bernard Hopkins I, TKO9 Raul Marquez
Notable Losses: TKO12 Carl Froch, UD12 Kelly Pavlik II, TKO7 Kelly Pavlik I

Analysis:

The first bout in Showtime's Super Six World Boxing Classic features a battle between the two men in the field who have the most accomplishments to their names, though those honors came one weight class south of super middleweight. Taylor is a former undisputed middleweight champion with two victories over Bernard Hopkins under his belt, while Abraham gave up his IBF 160-pound title to enter the tournament after making 10 successful defenses.

Those similarities aside, the two men couldn't be more different when it comes to styles and career paths. King Arthur may not have truly elite power or speed, but he's been able to turn back all challengers to this point by taking several rounds to study them, then dishing out punishment once he sees openings.

Taylor, meanwhile, limps into the Super Six off of a dramatic TKO loss at the hands of fellow participant Carl Froch that punctuated a 1-3 record in his last four fights. Despite his middleweight reign, he's never quite seemed to get his boxing savvy to the same high level of his physical gifts, and he's had a worrisome tendency to fade after looking good early.

While those factors would seem to dovetail into an easy night for Abraham, there's still intrigue thanks to the fact that he's physically smaller than every man he'll face in the tournament. He'll be giving away height, reach and overall bulk to Taylor, and he'll have to prove he can retain his effectiveness against top contenders at this higher weight.

The format of the Classic ensures the loser won't be out of contention to win it all, but of all the first round matches, this one stands to do the most psychological damage to the boxer who ends up in that position. Abraham would have to quickly show that he can deal with tasting his initial defeat, while Taylor would undoubtedly hear the whispers that he's finished - or even worse, that he shouldn't have been in the field at all.

Abraham's Winning Strategy: Patience is a Virtue

King Arthur's usual M.O. is to cover up on defense until he's comfortable with what he's seeing, unleashing accurate jabs and power shots once he thinks he's got his foe figured out. It's worked for him so far, and there's no reason to think he'll do anything radically different.

But Taylor could test his commitment to the game plan in a couple of ways. Jermain often looks impressive or even scores knockdowns in the first few rounds, earning a lead on the scorecards. The American can also be awkward and doesn't throw a ton of punches, leading to fewer opportunities for counter-punching than Abraham usually sees.

Though Taylor's chin is now rightly suspect, Abraham could still find his power punches don't do as much damage at 168. There are also the pressures of earning the extra points for a KO and fighting in front of thousands of adoring fans in his adopted homeland of Germany that could tempt him into extra aggression.

Abraham can't worry about any of that. He needs to dance with what got him here because it's his best chance to stay undefeated.

Taylor's Winning Strategy: Attack Early, Defend Late

Several media outlets have reported that Taylor has been working with doctors and coaches specifically to solve his problem of running out of gas in the late rounds. He'd better hope they come up with something, because Abraham will make him pay if he reverts to his old form.

That doesn't mean Taylor should sit back for the first few frames. On the contrary, he'd probably be better served by dialing up the aggression even more than usual in the hopes of building a lead - a task that may be tougher in Germany.

Since he's naturally bigger than Abraham, Taylor should be able to muscle him in the early rounds. King Arthur covers up well, so Jermain would be well served to mix things up to the head and body and throw combinations with the knowledge that not all of the punches will get through.

Assuming he feels like he's ahead after the halfway point, Taylor can ease off a bit and use the fact that he's taller and rangier to pick off a foe who will have to push the pace to catch up. And while it may not be pretty, getting on his bike may be called for as well, the better to avoid more final round drama going against him.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. Vs. Juan Manuel Marquez: In-Depth Preview

Floyd "Money" Mayweather Jr.

Birthplace: Grand Rapids, MI
Resides: Las Vegas
Height: 5' 8"
Reach: 72"
Current Titles Held: None
Former Titles Held: WBC Super Featherweight (130 lbs.), WBC Lightweight (135 lbs.), WBC Super Lightweight (140 lbs.), The Ring Magazine, WBC, IBF Welterweight (147 lbs.), WBC Super Welterweight (154 lbs.)
Professional Record: 39-0, 25 KOs
Record in World Title Fights: 18-0, 9 KOs
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 10-0

Notable Wins: TKO10 Ricky Hatton, SD12 Oscar De La Hoya, TKO10 Diego Corrales

Juan Manuel Marquez

Birthplace: Mexico City, Mexico
Resides: Anaheim, CA
Height: 5' 7"
Reach: 67"
Current Titles Held: The Ring Magazine, WBA, WBO Lightweight (135 lbs.)
Former Titles Held: WBA, WBO, IBF Featherweight (126 lbs.), WBC Super Featherweight (130 lbs.)
Professional Record: 50-4-1, 37 KOs
Record in World Title Fights: 9-4-1, 4 KOs
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 8-3-1

Notable Wins: TKO11 Joel Casamayor, UD12 Marco Antonio Barrera, TD7 Derrick Gainer
Notable Losses: SD12 Manny Pacquiao II, UD12 Chris John, UD12 Freddie Norwood

Analysis:

Does boxing need Floyd Mayweather Jr.? Or did the man who dubbed himself Money need the sport (or the fame or the financial benefits) too much to stay away?

Whatever the reason, Mayweather surprised very few people when he announced his return to the ring after less than two years of retirement. He did raise a few eyebrows with his choice of opponent, though, as multi-division Mexican champion Juan Manuel Marquez was last seen campaigning at lightweight, two divisions south of where Floyd had settled in.

Weight issues aside, the match-up is one that's right up the alley of boxing purists, with each man able to make a convincing argument that he's the finest pound-for-pound boxer in the world. Mayweather possesses a unique combination of learned skill and natural talent, flashing incredibly quick hands while proving maddeningly difficult to hit squarely in return. Though he'll also enjoy a rare size advantage, his main obstacle will be shaking off any rust that's accumulated since December 2007.

Marquez can counterpunch with surgical precision, and he's also shown surprising power as he's gone up in weight and an iron chin to boot. As noted above, he will be carrying more bulk than ever for his first foray north of 135 pounds, raising the spectre of giving away both speed and pop. JMM is also on the wrong side of 35 and has logged many more tough rounds in the ring than his younger foe.

Since the bout will be taking place on the weekend after Mexican Independence Day, Marquez will carry his banner of national pride into what's certain to be a raucous crowd at the MGM Grand. But Mayweather won't be lacking in motivation either, as he's eager to reclaim his spot atop the sport and prove the many detractors that he cultivates with his "me against the world act" wrong for doubting he can do it.

Mayweather's Winning Strategy: Fight Your Fight

There probably isn't a more polarizing figure among boxing fans than Mayweather. In a way, he's similar to the WWE wrestlers he's occasionally performed with, as fans are never quite sure how much of Floyd is a character he's created and how much is the real man.

For most of his career, Mayweather hasn't cared much for other peoples' opinions of him. He's been happy to keep winning whether he's looked good doing it or not, and he's been able to brush off criticisms that he hasn't fought the most threatening competition. Only now the derogatory salvos coming at him have increased, swelled by charges that he faked an injury that postponed the fight from its original summer date and that he's having - in more than a small bit of irony - money problems.

Mayweather has to ignore any temptation to prove anything to anyone and focus on what he does best: hit people without getting hit back. Floyd should be able to use his height and reach to dictate the action from the outside, and his hand speed should allow him to get off first if he so chooses. And even though Marquez will be waiting to counter, Mayweather's ability to move laterally could give the Mexican warrior fits and prove to be the most important tool at his disposal.

It may not make for the most fan-friendly game plan, but that's never stopped Money before.

JMM's Winning Strategy: Take Mayweather Out of His Comfort Zone

When it comes to Marquez, timing is everything. His uncanny ability to throw punches at exactly the right split-second has been cited by everyone from promoter Oscar De La Hoya to trainer Nacho Beristain as the antidote for Mayweather's speed.

Still, JMM can't simply sit back, as he'll risk getting picked apart by an opponent who will be more than happy to land and retreat out of harm's way. He'll have to successfully accomplish something that Ricky Hatton was unable to do, which is to keep the fight in Floyd's face.

If Marquez can force Mayweather to back up and throw punches just to gain space, he may find the countering opportunities that suit his style. If he has to eat a shot or two to pull it off, so be it. After all, JMM has taken 24 rounds of power shots from Manny Pacquiao and lived to tell about it.

Posted by The Franchise

Manny Pacquiao Vs. Ricky Hatton: In-Depth Preview

Manny "Pac Man" Pacquiao

Born: Bukidnon, Philippines
Resides: General Santos City, Philippines
Height: 5' 6 1/2"
Reach: 67"
Current Titles Held: None
Former Titles Held: WBC Lightweight (135 lbs.), Ring Magazine, WBC Super Featherweight (130 lbs.), Ring Magazine Featherweight (126 lbs.), IBF Super Bantamweight (122 lbs.), WBC Flyweight (112 lbs.)
Professional Record: 48-3-2, 36 KOs
Record in World Title Fights: 8-1-2, 7 KOs
Record at 140 lbs.: First fight at this weight
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 3-1-1

Notable Wins: TKO8 Oscar De La Hoya, TKO11 Marco Antonio Barrera I, SD12 Juan Manuel Marquez II
Notable Losses: UD12 Erik Morales I, KO3 Medgoen Singsurat


Ricky "Hitman" Hatton

Born: Stockport, England
Resides: Manchester, England
Height: 5' 7 1/2"
Reach: 65"
Current Titles Held: Ring Magazine Junior Welterweight (140 lbs.)
Former Titles Held: WBA Welterweight (147 lbs.), WBA, IBF Light Welterweight (140 lbs.)
Professional Record: 45-1, 32 KOs
Record in World Title Fights: 7-1, 4 KOs
Record at 140 lbs.: 40-0
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 8-0

Notable Wins: TKO11 Paul Malignaggi, KO4 Jose Luis Castillo, TKO11 Kostya Tszyu
Notable Losses: TKO10 Floyd Mayweather Jr.


Analysis:

For the second consecutive year, Pacquiao finds himself in the biggest fight on the calendar. Last time out, the pride of the Philippines blitzed Oscar De La Hoya into retirement and became the most likely candidate to take over for the Golden Boy as the top draw in boxing.

In Hatton, Pacquiao will battle not a fading superstar but a world champion who should also be in his prime. Though he crashed and burned the last time he fought a pound-for-pound king - losing to Floyd Mayweather Jr. in 2007 - the brawler from Manchester has reinvented himself as more of a technician under the guidance of Mayweather's father, Floyd Sr.

Mayweather has been insistent throughout his war of words with opposite number Freddie Roach that Hatton will be both too skilled and too big for Pacquiao to handle. The former point is debatable, but the latter point could have some merit considering the Hitman has spent nearly his entire career at 140 pounds.

Still, Pacquiao carried even more weight into the ring against De La Hoya without sacrificing his signature blend of speed and power. It's not out of the question that after hopping from super featherweight to lightweight to welterweight in his last three fights that he'll settle in nicely at junior welterweight.

While both men will be eager to show how much they've improved as boxers over the last few years, each has hinted that he wouldn't be surprised if the fight ends with someone looking at the lights. Most of Pacquiao and Hatton's career knockouts have come from cumulative damage, so the large audience expected to tune in on pay-per-view should get its money's worth.

And since the old instincts that say stand and trade never completely go away, there may well be more two-way fireworks before the end comes than either trainer is planning.


Pacquiao's Winning Strategy: Keep It Moving

Blessed with exceptionally fast hands, it's hard to imagine Pacquiao will have any more trouble beating Hatton to the punch than he's had in any of his other big fights. He's also come a long way from simply jabbing to set up his powerful left hand, so his offense now comes in a variety of forms.

But Manny can be hit when he stands in front of an opponent for too long, and while Hatton isn't a noted counterpuncher like Pac Man nemesis Juan Manuel Marquez, he is much more effective against a stationary target.

To combat that, Pacquiao would be well served to utilize the excellent lateral movement he displayed against De La Hoya. He'll look to avoid having the ring cut off, keeping the action in the center where his advantage in hand speed will be most apparent.

Pacquiao can also use his legs to control the distance of the fight, as Hatton feels most at home at very close range. Moving in and out will give Manny access to his whole arsenal, allowing him to start combinations with jabs, hooks or lead lefts.


Hatton's Winning Strategy: Combine the Old With the New

The bull in a china shop act that allowed Hatton to rack up 43 straight wins to start his career and bludgeon Kostya Tszyu into submission finally ran out of steam against Mayweather Jr. To his credit, he knew he needed to retool and showed quite a few new wrinkles against Paulie Malignaggi last November.

Even with more offensive diversity and defensive awareness, though, it's hard to see Hatton prevailing in a straight-up contest of boxing skills. Pacquiao has advantages in hand and foot speed that are just too obvious for even the "new" Hitman to overcome, and the risk of giving the fight away on the scorecards would be high.

What Hatton needs is a hybrid approach: using an improved jab and head movement to avoid trouble on the outside and exhibiting his previous rough and tumble approach to punish Pacquiao once he gets in close. He also needs to cut off the ring to give Manny less room to roam and allow his likely edge in strength to work in his favor.

If Hatton can make peace between his inner brawler and his newfound boxer, he'll have more than a puncher's chance to have his hand raised in victory at the end of the night.

Posted by The Franchise

Antonio Margarito Vs. Shane Mosley: In-Depth Preview

"The Tijuana Tornado" Antonio Margarito

Birthplace: Torrance, CA
Resides: Tijuana, Mexico
Height: 5' 11"
Reach: 73"
Current Titles Held: WBA Welterweight (147 lbs.)
Former Titles Held: WBO, IBF Welterweight
Professional Record: 37-5, 27 KOs
Record in World Title Fights: 10-2 (8 KOs), 1 No Contest
Record at 147 lbs.: 17-2, 1 No Contest
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 2-1

Notable Wins: TKO11 Miguel Cotto, KO6 Kermit Cintron II, UD12 Joshua Clottey
Notable Losses: UD12 Paul Williams, TD10 Daniel Santos

"Sugar" Shane Mosley

Birthplace: Lynwood, CA
Resides: Pomona, CA
Height: 5' 9"
Reach: 74"
Current Titles Held: None
Former Titles Held: WBC, WBA Light Middleweight (154 lbs.), WBC Welterweight, IBF Lightweight (135 lbs.)
Professional Record: 45-5, 38 KOs
Record in World Title Fights: 14-5 (11 KOs)
Record at 147 lbs.: 9-3
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 4-5

Notable Wins: TKO6 Fernando Vargas II, UD12 Oscar De La Hoya II, SD12 Oscar De La Hoya I
Notable Losses: UD12 Miguel Cotto, UD12 Winky Wright I, UD12 Vernon Forrest I

Analysis:

It sure seems like the boxing world has been full of "last chance" fights for former world champions over the past year or two, and this one qualifies as well. Mosley has proven he still belongs in the upper echelon of current fighters, but at age 37, this may be his final shot at another title and (perhaps most importantly) a continued presence in big money fights.

He's got a difficult task in front of him in the form of welterweight champion Margarito, who made the most of his biggest bout to date with a thrilling eleventh-round TKO of Miguel Cotto last year. The Tijuana Tornado isn't the busiest or most powerful fighter, but he puts those two traits together to form a relentless style that simply wilts opponents as the rounds go by.

Margarito's biggest foe could be complacency. He's thrived on the underdog role for so long, it's hard to say for certain how he'll handle life as one of the top dogs. With a Cotto rematch on the horizon and a seemingly bright future, the danger is that he'll look past Mosley.

That would be a mistake, as there's every reason to believe Mosley still has what it takes to pull of an upset. He won't be fighting from huge disadvantages in height and reach like some of Margarito's foes, and his hand speed and ability to pick spots to throw multi-punch flurries could still pose problems if the champ fails to bring his 'A' game.

One thing that would be a surprise is seeing either man knocked out. Mosley has never been down for the count in 53 professional fights, many of which came against world class competition, and Margarito has a well-deserved reputation for possessing an iron chin.

Margarito's Winning Strategy: Get Started Early

Though it's not impossible to see Margarito winning by KO - he did, after all, get to Cotto eventually - he certainly doesn't want to bank on it against Mosley, so it's important for him to make sure he's winning rounds. Even though his tireless work ethic suits itself to coming from behind, he doesn't want to have to dig himself out a hole against an opponent also known for coming on late.

Margarito waited too long to get started against Paul Williams in 2007 and it cost him. Mosley fights more in spurts now than he did in his younger days, so if the champ gets in a mindset to outwork him from the beginning, he should be able to pull it off.

At the same time, he doesn't want to simply throw caution to the wind against a boxer as seasoned as Mosley. Cotto was able to box Margarito effectively for the first half of their fight, but he couldn't keep it up for 12 rounds. If Tony gets going early and is prepared to go the distance at the same pace, he'll be nearly impossible to beat.

Mosley's Winning Strategy: Hit and Run

Hopefully Mosley took notes when his business partner Oscar De La Hoya was getting outclassed by Manny Pacquiao, because he'll have to do something similar to what Pacman did last December. That means using his footwork to get in and out effectively, circling away when the pressure gets too intense.

Mosley can still crack pretty hard for a welterweight, but he can't afford to fall in love with standing in front of Margarito, as that's a recipe for disaster. Fortunately, the gameplan he needs to follow dovetails pretty well with his preferred pace at this point in his career, which is to throw punches in short bursts.

He's certainly outgunned if the match turns into a continuous firefight. But if Mosley is savvy enough to pick his spots, getting off first and then getting away, he may be able to give Margarito more of a challenge than many are expecting.

In-Depth Preview: Oscar De La Hoya vs. Manny Pacquiao

Manny "Pac Man" Pacquiao

Birthplace: Bukidnon, Philippines
Height: 5' 6 1/2"
Reach: 67"
Current Titles Held: WBC Lightweight (135 lbs.)
Former Titles Held: WBC Super Featherweight (130 lbs.), IBF Super Bantamweight (122 lbs.), WBC Flyweight (112 lbs.)
Professional Record: 47-3-2, 35 KO's
Record in World Title Fights: 8-1-2, 7 KO's
Record at 147 lbs.: First fight at this weight
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 3-1-1

Notable Wins: TKO11 Marco Antonio Barrera I, KO3 Erik Morales III, SD12 Juan Manuel Marquez II
Notable Losses: UD12 Erik Morales I, KO3 Medgoen Singsurat

"The Golden Boy" Oscar De La Hoya

Birthplace: Montebello, CA
Height: 5' 10 1/2"
Reach: 73"
Current Titles Held: None
Former Titles Held: WBO super featherweight (130 lbs.), WBO, IBF lightweight (135 lbs.), WBC super lightweight (140 lbs.), WBC welterweight (147 lbs.), WBC, WBA junior middleweight (154 lbs.), WBO middleweight (160 lbs.)
Professional Record: 39-5, 30 KO's
Record in World Title Fights: 24-5, 17 KO's
Record at 147 lbs.: 10-2
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 8-4

Notable Wins: UD12 Pernell Whitaker, TKO8 Julio Cesar Chavez, TKO11 Fernando Vargas
Notable Losses: MD12 Felix Trinidad, KO9 Bernard Hopkins, SD12 Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Analysis:

This bout is fittingly billed as The Dream Match, because until earlier this year, there was no reason to think these two multi-divisional champions would ever be in the ring together. But when Floyd Mayweather's unexpected retirement erased De La Hoya's lucrative rematch, this fight took its place as the biggest fight possible in the current boxing landscape.

Like Mayweather, Pacquiao is considered one of the best pound-for-pound boxers on the planet today. His dazzling combination of speed and power has helped him blast his way by opponents from 112 to 135 pounds, and his defense has made vast improvements under the tutelage of Freddie Roach.

De La Hoya is also a former titleholder at 130 and 135 pounds, but that's where the similarities end. He's been fighting some of the best in the world at welterweight and above since before this decade started, raising the very legitimate question of whether he'll simply be too big for Pacquiao.

With the Golden Boy enjoying large advantages in height, reach and pure bulk, his patented left hook looms as a larger threat that it has in most of his last half-dozen fights. He figures to be facing a significant disadvantage in pure hand speed, so he'll be relying on his unquestioned boxing skills and the wisdom gained in dozens of previous world title fights.

Facing his biggest challenge both figuratively and literally, Pacquiao says he feels fast and strong despite bulking up to fight two weight classes higher than he's ever fought before. If his quickness rules the day or his power translates to 147, he'll stand a very real chance of coming out on top and adding another entry to an already impressive resume.

Pacquiao's Winning Strategy: Speed Kills

Some of Manny's supporters seem to think he'll be so blindingly fast that Oscar won't be able to lay a glove on him. That seems unlikely though, as his style has always been more seek-and-destroy than stick-and-move.

Regardless, Pacquiao's speed is still his primary weapon and his biggest key to victory. He'll have to be busy enough on the outside to neutralize De La Hoya's jab and let his hands go once he gets inside.

Since he's used to scoring knockouts, he'll also have to face up to the fact that his foe has been hit by much bigger men and may be able to take his best shots. That means the quantity, and not quality, of punches landed will likely punch Manny's winning ticket.

And since speed applies to more than just hands, Pacquiao will be in good shape if he uses his legs as well. He's not going to jump in and out, but he can use good movement around the ring to his benefit against the older De La Hoya.

De La Hoya's Winning Strategy: Size Matters

With the exception of an overmatched Ricardo Mayorga, De La Hoya hasn't been a serious knockout artist for at least five years. That won't be the case against Pacquiao, as Oscar's relative size and power have to be respected.

The Golden Boy may find that he's taking two punches to set up one, but it's what he does with that one that matters. De La Hoya will look to jab while Pacquiao is coming in and use hooks to the head and body once he gets there.

Anyone who thinks Pacquiao will prove too difficult to track down need only think back to De La Hoya's close loss to Mayweather, who possesses similar offensive gifts but has many more subtle defensive moves. There will be occasions where Manny is there to be hit, and Oscar will need to make him pay.

To make this strategy most effective, ring generalship will also be important. That shouldn't be a problem for De La Hoya, who's been facing top-notch competition for more than a decade and knows more than a little bit about cutting off the ring.

In-Depth Preview: Joe Calzaghe vs. Roy Jones Jr.

Joe Calzaghe

Birthplace: Hammersmith, England

Height: 5' 11"

Reach: 73"

Current Titles Held: Ring Magazine Light Heavyweight (175 lbs.)

Former Titles Held: WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO Super Middleweight (168 lbs.)

Professional Record: 45-0, 32 KO's.

Record in World Title Fights: 23-0, 11 KO's

Record at 175 lbs.: 1-0

Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 12-0

Notable Wins: SD12 Bernard Hopkins, UD12 Mikkel Kessler, UD12 Jeff Lacy

Notable Losses: None

Roy Jones Jr.

Birthplace: Pensacola, Florida

Height: 5' 11"

Reach: 74"

Current Ttiles Held: None

Former Titles Held: IBF Middleweight (160 lbs.), IBF Super Middleweight (168 lbs.), WBC, WBA, IBF, IBO Light Heavyweight (175 lbs.), WBA Heavyweight

Professional Record: 52-4, 38 KO's

Record in World Title Fights: 23-4, 14 KO's

Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 12-1

Notable Wins: UD12 John Ruiz, KO1 Montell Griffin, UD12 Bernard Hopkins

Notable Losses: KO9 Glen Johnson, TKO2 Antonio Tarver, DQ9 Montell Griffin

Analysis:

Add this to the list of "dream fights" for boxing fans which would be just a little bit more interesting if both participants were in their respective primes.

The undefeated Calzaghe seems closer to his, coming off a razor thin yet no less impressive decision over Bernard Hopkins. He got up off the canvas in that bout and also shook off some difficult moments in his previous fight against Mikkel Kessler, both times showing a rare ability to adapt on the fly.

Jones clearly isn't the same boxer in 2008 as he was prior to 2004, when his air of invincibility was shattered by consecutive starchings at the hands of Antonio Tarver and Glen Johnson. His last three outings have been better though, and he's sporting a new, more carefree attitude that could serve him well.

If Jones can summon up enough of his old magic at age 39, there's no reason this couldn't be a barnburner. Despite his obvious skill, Calzaghe has really only stepped up his level of competition in the last two or three years, and Saturday will be just his second fight in the United States. Neither man should be short on motivation, with Calzaghe wishing to leave the sport with an unblemished record and Jones eyeing a very lucrative rematch with old rival Hopkins.

The hand speed of both boxers allows for fast flurries that dazzle even if they don't land clean. And since neither fighter has shown an abundance of KO power as of late - Calzaghe, especially, has been derided as a slapper - this has the look of a crowd-pleasing contest with an excellent chance to go the distance.

Calzaghe's Winning Strategy: Keep Up the Pressure

Anyone who saw Calzaghe fight Jeff Lacy probably remembers that it looked like a really solid shot from his opponent that night might destroy him. Lacy never got a chance though, as Calzaghe pummeled him by continually getting off first and keeping the volume of punches flowing for 12 rounds.

The Pride of Wales has since shown that he doesn't necessarily have to fight that way to win, but it still might be his best bet against Jones. Roy's difficulties with Antonio Tarver and, to a lesser extent, Glen Johnson showed that at this stage of the game, he doesn't deal well with boxers who will keep leather in his face all night.

Calzaghe got caught and dropped by Hopkins early on, and Jones is more than capable of doing the same. The best way to avoid that is to beat Jones to the punch whenever possible.

If constant pressure isn't the way to go, Calzaghe should know within three or four rounds. Fortunately for him, few current fighters are better at identifying what's not working and coming up with a Plan B should the need arise.

Jones' Winning Strategy: Don't Live in the Past

Once upon a time, Jones was so physically gifted that he didn't need to fight with solid fundamentals to win. Some of his most spectacular KO's have come from sequences you'd never find taught at a gym.

If Jones forgets that he's no longer that fighter, he's in for a long night. Calzaghe has very fast hands, and inconceivable as it may have seemed back in the day, Roy's probably slower to the punch than his opponent.

What Jones does have is a lot more experience against championship-caliber foes. He has to have learned a lot from all of those rounds, and while he's not going to suddenly morph into a master technician, he'll need to employ all the lessons he's learned to hang the first 'L' on Calzaghe.

Also, while the stats say both men are built about the same, Jones' extended time at light heavyweight and above suggests he will be bigger and stronger than Calzaghe and may get the best of things in close.

Roy the bully? Now that would be something different than we're used to seeing from him, and in this case, different is better.

In-Depth Preview: Kelly Pavlik vs. Bernard Hopkins

Kelly "The Ghost" Pavlik

Birthplace: Youngstown, OH
Height: 6'2"
Reach: 75"
Current Titles Held: WBC, WBO, Ring Magazine Middleweight (160 lbs.)
Professional Record: 34-0, 30 KO's
Record in World Title Fights: 2-0, 2 KO's
Record at 170 lbs.: No record
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 1-0

Notable Wins: UD12 Jermain Taylor II, TKO7 Jermain Taylor I, TKO7 Edison Miranda
Notable Losses: None

Bernard "The Executioner" Hopkins

Birthplace: Philadelphia, PA
Height: 6'1"
Reach: 75"
Current Titles Held: None
Former Titles Held: WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO, Ring Magazine Middleweight (160 lbs.); IBO Light Heavyweight (175 lbs.)
Professional Record: 48-5-1, 32 KO's
Record in World Title Fights: 21-3-1, 13 KO's
Record at 170 lbs.: 1-0
Record in Fights Going 12 Rounds: 11-4-1

Notable Wins: UD12 Antonio Tarver, KO9 Oscar De La Hoya, TKO12 Felix Trinidad
Notable Losses: SD12 Joe Calzaghe, UD12 Jermain Taylor II, UD12 Roy Jones Jr.

Analysis:

If there ever was a big time boxing match that featured two fighters with the wrong nicknames, this is it.

Reigning middleweight champion Pavlik has the style that systematically breaks down opponents, stopping them with the power he carries in both hands. Former middleweight and light heavyweight belt-holder Hopkins frustrates foes with his unmatched knowledge of defensive maneuvers and the subtler aspects of the sweet science. Opponents can see him, but often they can't hit him with clean shots.

Pavlik comes into the fight off a successful defense of his belts at 160 lbs. against overmatched Gary Lockett. Though he often speaks of his willingness to fight anyone his team will put in front of him, he seemed reluctant to take this one. That's probably less a sign of a lack of confidence than it is the realization that it's nearly impossible to look good against Hopkins, even in a win.

Indeed, the crafty veteran has never acknowledged a defeat, even though he's fallen short on the scorecards in three of his last five fights. The downside to the style that Hopkins has employed in the late stages of his career is that it isn't exactly fan-friendly, leaving few to rally to his cause when he claims he's been sold short by the judges.

If styles do indeed make fights, this one could be decided by whichever fighter is best able to impose his. An action-packed fight with punches landing both ways heavily favors Pavlik, while a bout fought in spurts with the ref intervening multiple times a round will make Hopkins smile. Either way there's a definite possibility boxing fans will see something historic: The Ghost tasting his first defeat or The Executioner losing in decisive fashion.

Pavlik's Winning Strategy: Be Relentless

Note that relentless doesn't mean reckless. Coming forward without a plan leaves big openings for Hopkins' best weapon, his counter right.

Fortunately for Pavlik, that's not his M.O. Despite his high KO percentage, he's neither a pure volume puncher nor a free-swinging brawler. Instead, he walks opponents down throwing combinations that start with his jab, and he's equally effective and willing to go to the body and the head.

This Saturday, his goal will be to win enough early rounds to make Hopkins have to turn aggressive later on. He has to be wise enough to realize that his punches may not do quite as much damage against a man who's now used to being hit by light heavyweights, and he has to be patient enough to keep throwing multiple shots even if not many land flush - which is likely given Hopkins' defensive mastery.

Pavlik also needs to be willing to see his game plan through to the end. His reputation for conditioning has been very strong, but he's only gone 12 rounds one time in his pro career. Since Hopkins has never been knocked out, there's a very good chance that number is about to double.

Hopkins' Winning Strategy: Make it Ugly

The worst thing Bernard Hopkins could see early Sunday morning are high numbers being posted by CompuBox. Most of the time a fighter facing an opponent moving up in weight would welcome a firefight, but that's tough sledding against Pavlik and isn't guaranteed to go in favor of The Executioner.

What Hopkins is looking for is a bout fought in short bursts, and he's uniquely qualified to make that happen. He's excellent at blocking and slipping punches and has an incredible sense for the right time to fight off the ropes. Hopkins will hold and grab as much as necessary on the inside (plus do other things that brush the boundaries of legal tactics), for psychological effect as well as to control the tempo.

Combinations won't be a bad idea if they present themselves - especially at the end of rounds to influence the judging - but Bernard's ideal fight features strong single-shot counters after a Pavlik punch that doesn't land clean. His right hand knocked Joe Calzaghe down in his last fight, so there's no reason it couldn't do the same to Pavlik if he can fire it on target.

Every time Hopkins steps in the ring, there's a chance it could be his last time. If that's the case Saturday, whether he wins or loses, expect him to shape the pace of the fight to his liking if at all humanly possible.