Big fight preview - Lockett can beat Pavlik by Clayton Jones Jun 3rd 2008

In the build up to Gary Lockett's WBC/WBO world middleweight title clash against Kelly Pavlik this Saturday, it appears the Welshman has been firmly installed as the underdog. Some more blunt observers have gone further by questioning his right to share the ring with the fearsome punching American, adding that he stands absolutely no chance of victory.   Given Pavlik's recent run of form and the fact that the contest will take place on the champion's home turf in the Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City, such comments are justified to a certain extent. That said, I see no reason to write off Lockett so prematurely. Sure, following an impressive back from the brink win over Edison Miranda (TKO7) and back to back victories over Jermain Taylor (TKO7 and W12), the Youngstown native is on a roll and must be considered the clear favourite.     However, due to his mechanical, come-forward style, he also showed in those fights that he was susceptible to being hit and badly hurt by other big punchers – and the challenger is certainly one of those. Admittedly, Pavlik (33-0 29 KOs), has displayed Felix Trinidad like recuperative powers in the past, but Lockett possesses the kind of firepower that enables him to seal an opponents fate with a single concussive blow. That alone, surely makes him a genuine threat.     But my argument in defence of Lockett (30-1 21 KOs) doesn't end there. For the self proclaimed ‘Rocket Man', who holds the lightly regarded WBU title, this fight represents a major opportunity to reignite a career that initially promised so much. Despite a highly successful period as an amateur, inactivity, poor health and a lack of confidence have led to him flattering to deceive as a pro. In particular, a brave but painful defeat to Yuri Tsarenko on the Joe Calzaghe-Charles Brewer bill in 2002 represented a serious setback – despite the fact that the defeat was avenged a year later.   Lockett, 31, has amassed 11 further wins since, most notably against Ryan Rhodes in 2006, but until recently the prospect of showcasing his talents on the world stage were looking bleak. Having now secured this chance as mandatory challenger, I believe he'll approach the contest in a focused, self-assured frame of mind and will be desperate to make a statement to those who doubt his credentials.   And then there's the ‘Calzaghe' factor. Firstly, in terms of Enzo, who has vastly improved Lockett's level of fitness, together with instilling a sense of belief that is inevitable when you are associated with such a high profile and successful camp. Secondly, there's Joe. Many people have been talking up Pavlik, 26, as an opponent for his supposed farewell fight, possibly in November this year. I'm sure such speculation has not only needled Lockett, but has also provided him with added motivation to personally see to it that this bout does not come to fruition.   Of course, Lockett will be fully aware of the task ahead of him and, as I've already acknowledged, must be considered the underdog. However, before people completely dismiss his chances, perhaps they should consider that as recently as 2005, Pavlik himself was relatively unknown, fighting the likes of Daniel Neal (9-8-1) and Vincent Harris (12-17-2).    Boxing can be a fickle business. One minute you're considered the kingpin and the next you're tagged as an also-ran – just ask Jeff Lacy. During the early hours of next Sunday morning, Gary Lockett has the opportunity to reverse this trend and I sincerely hope he does.

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Good Call! Jun 8th 2008, 10:47:45 by irishhapp Wow, you sure know your boxing. Just a wild and crazy guess here, you don't happen to be British are you Clayton? Good to see you didn't let your UK bias interfere with the fact that Lockett was a massive underdog and that most commentators say that Pavlik's speed and power are deceptive because of is long and lanky body type. I'm guessing you picket Hatton over Mayweather as well? After last night, guessing Lockett and Enzo are believers now, hoping you are as well (Clayton is from Youngstown, Ohio - Ed.)   theoretically anyone can beat anyone Jun 3rd 2008, 09:11:35 by mikebods Lockett is gonna get his head knocked into the third row. why would the article point out some of Pavliks mediocre past oponents? after this fight Lockett will be part of that very short list.