This is going to be an awesome fight. I'm fortunate that I'll not be working, and I'll be able to catch it live, because I anticipate some heart pounding moments come this Saturday night.
I don't know who is going to win, but I think based on skillset the book is about right at the moment, with Mathysse being the favorite.
I don't necessarily believe that Mathysse's greater acumen, or speed advantage is going to make a bit of difference in the end. In the end, I think it's going to be a dogfight, and if they can each take the other's power, it's going to be a magical night of boxing.
Provodnikov has had his worst moments against runners, Mathysse isn't going to be moving too much past the 4th round or so IMO.
Provodnikov is the kind of fighter that thrives in a back and forth battle, and this fight is going to be right up his alley.
There seems to be a belief that Ruslan gasses. I don't think that's necessarily the case. He can be lulled into inactivity and repetition through frustration. In essence, he can be put in a mental state where he's just going through the motions.
I do NOT see that happening against Lucas, because, simply put, Lucas brings it, and if you aren't motivated in the ring against Lucas, it's probably because you're a) a robot, or b) unconscious.
I put my $ on Ruslan, simply because the line is sweeter, and I believe it's going to be around a 50/50 type of fight, especially if it goes past the 4th or 5th round.
There's a UFC card on this weekend as well, but that'll be on tape delay @ my house, 'cause THIS is must see TV.