This fight may actually be the strange case where a tested champion has more to prove than the challenger. Taylor has some impressive wins on his record, most notably against Bernard Hopkins and Cory Spinks. Yet his is the type of success that raises more questions, largely do to the controversial nature of his wins. The controversial draw with Winky Wright only adds to the doubts surrounding Taylor’s ability. In short, Taylor needs to have more dominant performances that leave no room for doubt and this bout against Pavlik is the perfect place to start.

Pavlik will surely try to test Taylor’s chin as he is known for his brawling style. However, with both boxers realizing the importance of this fight and the ability of the other to punch with power, this may yet turn out to be more of a boxing match than most predict. If the bout does indeed take this direction then Taylor will have a decided edge as the more experienced and skilled boxer. While Pavlik does have some boxing ability we have yet to see what he is truly capable of in that department. Pavlik’s best chance is to draw Jermain into a slugfest where Pavlik may be the most comfortable.

This fight will likely be competitive throughout with the final edge going to Taylor. His experience and boxing ability will probably be the deciding factors in the fight. It will be up to Pavlik to adjust his game plan if Taylor does decide to box which he will most likely do. Following a puncher like Taylor around the ring is suicide, so it will be interesting to see if Pavlik can cut off the ring and put consistent and effective pressure on Jermain. In the end I predict Taylor will come out on top either by a late round TKO or by unanimous decision.