By Jon Neale: The reason why we have sites such as Boxingnews24 is so that the Boxing fan has a forum to debate. Opinion, especially in Heavyweight boxing is largely irrelevant. Given the nature of the sport of Boxing, the size and power of the fighters in the ‘Marquee’ division and the huge amount of variables which apply when two warriors enter the ring to engage in battle, it is for this reason that even when the Sport is under such criticism we, as fans still love to get involved.

Ultimately we are all hoping for the next ‘Great Upset’! Everyone likes an underdog. And most people hate a villain. Boxing gives us an opportunity to be involved in the hype and the build-up as well as the final play which of course is fight night! I would like to point out at this stage that many (not all) of the North American visitors to this site (and indeed a few of the writers of American descent, you know who I mean) still have not cottoned on to the fact that some of the more cerebrally alert fighters in the world today actually play on this notion and therefore play ‘the part’ of the bad guy when needed (see Mayweather, Haye, Margarito etc etc etc). By doing so this creates interest in the fight, promotes the occasion and the rivalry and generates additional revenue through tickets and pay-per-view. What surprises me is that for a nation that seems so riveted by the gymnastic abilities of the WWF/WWE actors that the notion of ‘Good guys’ and ‘Bad guys’ is so alien…

So, in conclusion. David Haye has floored all the Heavyweights he has faced with the exception of the Giant Valuev (whom he wobbled significantly) and nearly all of the Cruiser weights so his power is not up for question. Could he win the fight against Vladimir Klitschko… Of course he could. Is Vladimir Klitschko a proven Champion, with power in both hands and excellent technical ability…. Yes he is and yes he does. Could he win the fight against David Haye… Of course he could. But the truth is, none of us know and we are all excited about finding out.

Predictions:

I would predict that Vladimir will not risk anything in the fight but will likely win over 12 rounds by out pointing Haye via that long left Jab. In this scenario the fight will be largely slated by fans and the Boxing public and a rematch will be insisted upon to try and force some sort of knockout conclusion… this will also secure the fighters retirement plans financially!

The alternative is Haye will catch Vladimir in the first 3 rounds with a shot that will stun him and that will be the only opening for Haye to get in close and finish the job. In this instance Haye will then get a final fight before retiring against Vitali where he will be beaten but remunerated extremely well. Either way, enjoy David Haye for the next 7 months, after that it’s back to painting one of the walls in your house and slowly watching it dry OR enjoying the lower divisions…