This is not Mayweather vs Pacquiao – but let’s forget about that May 2nd bout for one moment!
Let’s have a look at why Matthysse vs Provodnikov is a matchup that simply cannot be missed this weekend.
1. No Major Titles, No Pound-4-Pound Supremacy – But Who Cares!
Matthysse vs Provodnikov is a bout that promises fireworks from start to finish. This is two of boxing’s most aggressive punchers going at it. Unlike Mayweather vs Pacquiao, there’s no major titles on the line, pound-for-pound supremacy, or any of that greatest ever lark – and who really cares? Let’s forget about the record books!
The Matthysse vs Provodnikov pre-fight script promises an all-out, toe-to-toe war. And it’s unlikely fight fans will be disappointed.
2. It’s Got KO Victory Written All Over It – Fan-Friendly Without Question
Not everyone is a boxing purist and advocate of great footwork, defense, counter-punching and what-not – some people just want to see caution thrown to wind and bombs thrown. If this is you, then look no further. If you’re a casual boxing fan looking for a good-old-fashioned tear up, then again, look no further.
Lucas Matthysse has an 85% knockout ratio – enough said. He may have met his match against top-dog Danny Garcia, but he has licked the floor with the rest of his challengers – or given them hell for their efforts. Recent victims include John Molina Jr. and Lamont Peterson whose senses were successfully derailed inside the distance.
Then we have Ruslan Provodnikov, nicknamed the ‘Siberian Rocky’ because of his thunderous hands and courageous nature. His knockout ratio may pale at 65%, but don’t be fooled – he’s a powerhouse that dropped and brutalized Timothy Bradley over 12 rounds, and also bulldozed Mike Alvarado.
3. Matthysse vs Provodnikov Could Shake Up the Junior Welterweight Scene
Want to see division leader Danny Garcia back in the ring with a serious threat once again? Sure, Lamont Peterson did himself proud recently, but wouldn’t it be great to see him in with another full-blooded puncher like Lucas Matthysse?
A rematch with this old foe would no doubt bring the best out in Garcia, and – depending on the outcome of tonight’s fight – perhaps Ruslan Provodnikov could take him into deep waters also. With Terence Crawford and Thomas Dulorme also locking horns tonight in a WBO Junior Welterweight title bout in Arlington, Texas, we could also see the winner being pressured into a fight with Matthysse or Provodnikov. Tantalizing stuff.
You can catch all the action on HBO in the US, and Boxnation in the UK. Watch the Matthysse vs Provodnikov Preview here.
Let us know how you see Matthysse vs Provodnikov unfolding! 12-round war? Sure-fire knockout? Or other?
The BoxingBase.com writing staff provide worldwide boxing news, coverage and analysis – they can be contacted via email and social media.
