Klitschko pounds Povetkin to win decision
Wladimir Klitschko (61-3) remained the world's top heavyweight when he beat previously undefeated Alexander Povetkin (26-1) with an lopsided 12 round unanimous decision to retain his WBA/IBO/IBF/WBO world titles on Saturday night at the Olympic Stadium in Moscow, Russia.
The judges scored it 119-104, 119-104 and 119-104.
It was a dominating though ugly performance from Wladimir, who jabbed and grabbed his way through the fight as Povetkin plodded forward swinging but unable to make a dent in the champion.
In the opening round Povetkin tried to get inside Klitschko's defence, moving forward and throwing punches, forcing Wladimir to clinch. Klitschko hurt his Russian opponent at the conclusion of the round before pushing him to the canvas. Had referee Luis Pabon penalized Klitschko early on, who began repeatedly holding and pushing Povetkin, it would of forced Klitschko to fight and we could of seen a more intriguing contest if not different outcome.
A short left hook from Klitschko sent Povetkin to the canvas for the first time in his career in the 2nd round and the Ukrainian resumed control through to the 3rd round landing the heavier blows. The 5th was scrappy as Povetkin struggled to make an impact with Klitschko mostly holding throughout the round. Povetkin's power rights repeatedly fell short and he got tied up on every missed attempt. Klitschko was holding down and leaning his weight on Povetkin whenever the two fighters clinched.
In the 7th Povetkin was on shaky legs, getting knocked down three times starting with a left-right combination but he had a big heart and got to the end of the round.
Though even at this point Klitschko was a long way in front on points and Povetkin required a knockout to win.
In round 11 Klitschko was finally deducted a point after repeatedly holding and shoving Povetkin to the canvas but it made no difference to the outcome. Povetkin managed to survive until the final bell but never came close to getting the knockout he needed.
