Nikolai Valuev Vs John Ruiz—Again? Prediction & Analysis

Shlomo Abrin — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 21:09:53 -0400

Nikolai Valuev is a HUGE man, maybe too big for the game. Although he has shown technical improvement and takes training seriously, his punches still telegraph from somewhere out in the mesosphere.

Let's face it, the Russian bear is nothing more than freak show with some skill and a pleasant demeanor—but as in any sport, size isn't everything and, in boxing, it can even become a handicap.

John Ruiz, yet again, in spite of being almost as painful to watch in the ring as Bernard Hopkins, is provided with the opportunity to display his classic hugging-and-holding style—keeping us all wondering how it is that this lump of boxing boredom still manages to get title fights.

Not that the WBA means all that much anyhow, but I can think of at least 100 other heavyweights I'd rather see in this fight.

Against the cagey, awkward, holding-on-for-dear-life gangsta-wanna-be Ruiz, the Russian behemoth will score a split decision victory will little or no blood shed by either contestant.

Don’t waste time watching this one. Expect this fight to be a bigger yawner than their first encounter. If you must watch this fight, at least be sensible and bring along a good book or a pillow. This event should be sponsored by the makers of Nyquil.

Frankly, I’d rather watch the cut-men play gin rummy.

Bleacher Report - Articles by Shlomo Abrin

Nikolai Valuev Vs John Ruiz—Again? Prediction & Analysis