So much for the early news that Tyson Fury would be more streamlined than last time against Wilder. He weighed in at a hefty 273, up 17 pounds on their first clash. As Fury stripped for the scales, we got a fleeting look at his stomach .... not good. In the latter part of his preparation, his camp stated that Fury was beefing up to build power, I'm not so sure. There's a real chance that Fury may not have been as committed as in the past. He's a clever bloke though and has a fighting will that should stand him in good stead, but this bulging gut doesn't bode well. He didn't want to take off his shirt either. Wilder has also packed on weight. He's gone up 18 pounds, a reputed fight high for him. But he still looks good. Will it slow him? And will the rise in weights make either of them heavier punchers? Can Wilder punch any heavier than he's done in the past? If he can, it's a frightening thought. And is the old adage that putting on pounds make for a better chin? Not for me, but who knows? I think the one thought I'm left with is that a knock out now looks a better bet. Maybe the extra pounds will see the both men fatigue to a point where someone's chin will wear some serious damage? It'll be an interesting fight. Strange to hear the booing for Wilder at the weigh in. The odds seem to have reversed. The champion is now the favourite. 1.90 Wilder. 2.05 Fury.
On the under card, Charles Martin is quoted at 1.22 against Gerald Washington's 4.25. Is that a true reflection of their respective chances? I though Martin's price might be a bit too short. Also on the same card, the number 1 ranked pound for pound Super Bantamweight, WBO Champion Manuel Navarrete is a 1.03 favourite against Jeo Santisima who's a 15-1 shot. Nevarrete will be making his 5th defence of the title he took from Isaac Dogboe.
Wilder and Fury are each to get $5,000,000 according to the Navada State Athletic Commission, but have been guaranteed $25 million apiece from the PPVs. $275,000 Washington. $250,000 Martin. $300,000. Navarrete. $25,000. Santisima.
Very intriguing weigh in. Both fighters look lean but both are much heavier this time around. Does the additional weight for Wilder consolidate that power and finish Fury, or does it take away a bit of speed and leave him missing wildly? Does the weight make Fury stronger with a view to stopping Wilder? Or will it mean he plants his feet and gets caught by a clean Wilder shot? Its a “pick-em” fight but the weigh in tells me this ain’t going 12. Either Wilder gets this done or if Fury can drag him into the trenches and survive an onslaught, he might stop Wilder out on his feet.
If Fury can stay out of the way for the 12 rounds then i think he'll win by 6 or 7 rounds. I just don't think he'll be able to stay out of the way and i think Wilder stops him. I can't envisage a scenario where Fury stops Wilder so for me its either Wilder by KO or Fury on points. 20/1 the draw if anyone is brave enough to chance it
I was sorely tempted to dip into PPV for the first time in a very long time this evening. However when I got home from the pub last night I watched a rerun of the first fight. Exciting ending but crap up until then. One bloke is an anti fighter and the other is looking for a single bomb the whole time. 4 a.m. for a re run, no thanks.
I'm a huge Fury fan who's hoping to see Wilder get starched ... but this time I really fear the Alabama Hammer.
I might listen if I can as it will be 6am here. I can't see myself paying for it. Might have if my son was here but he isn't.
Summary of predictions - only one outcome allowed Ron. Wilder by TKO Round 5 mal. Fury pts. Cyc. Toppy. smokey. Chan.
Mike Costello on 5Live is a superb boxing commentator Ron. However I think Talksport have the radio broadcast rights for this fight rather than 5 Live. Costello is doing a podcast with post fight reports and analysis which I'll probably sign up for in the morning.
Fury showing he is no1 without a doubt. Can box and go win on pts or can take you out if he fancies it. Wilder, always has a punchers chance but is limited. Joshua, limited, supsect chin, decent power, but will never beat Fury.
What a **** fight that was. Wilder didn't look interested one bit. He took no part from the first bell. Fury did the job against a shocking opponent on the night. He still looks like he's lacking the power. Wilders face was there to be hit all night and he still couldn't stop him. Correct decision from Wilders corner to throw towel in. They probably could have done it in the 5th to be fair. Fury used his size advantage to great effect smothering Wilder and leaning on him. Apart from Charles Martin against Joshua I can't remember in recent times a World Champion looking so bad. Well done Fury on being a two time World champion but I'm still of the opinion that it's a piss poor division.
What a win by the big man. With the exception of the second round stoppage, Fury lived up to his word. He'd be in Wilder's face all night and stop him. He predicted how he's beat Klitschko, and did the same against Wilder. He's of the opinion he'd flog Joshua, I'm a believer.