2 Fight Predictions

HBO offers a solid doubleheader tonight, headlined by Kelly Pavlik (of Andrew's Sweet Chin Music) defending his WBC and WBO Middleweight Championship against Sergio Martinez. Pavlik's status in boxing has declined over the past 2 years due to the combination of a loss to Bernard Hopkins, uninspiring wins over poor-quality opponents and a staph infection. Tonight both Pavlik and Martinez have the opportunity to grab a top 10 pound-for-pound ranking. Martinez was extremely close to upsetting Paul Williams last December and appears prepared and motivated for a run at the middleweight crown. The crafty southpaw will have to be at his best for 12 rounds to achieve this lofty goal. Pavlik must achieve what he has in the past: a high work-rate, damaging right hands and good-enough boxing in the middle of the ring.

My prediction: W 12 Martinez. I just think that Pavlik, at the end of the day, is not a skilled defensive fighter. Martinez is going to be scoring with sharp shots and I think this will discourage Pavlik from getting inside too often. Pavlik is tough, and I think his toughness will take him the full 12 rounds, but I don't think his boxing skills will be enough to outduel Martinez. Sweet Chin Music should prepare for a loss.

UNDERCARD BOUT: Lucian Bute (of JoelB's Ready to Rumble) vs Edison Miranda

Bute is the undefeated IBF Super Middleweight Champion, while Miranda can be best described as a former rising star. Miranda has suffered big losses to Arthur Abraham, Kelly Pavlik and Andre Ward and really hasn't earned another title shot. His big mouth keeps him on the radar screen, b/c he's made a name for himself. I see Bute's superior skills making the fight very one-sided. Bute was able to KO the tough Librado Andrade in his last bout, and I feel that he can do the same with Miranda.

My Prediction: KO 8 Bute