11.09.06 – By Dave Domenico: As of now, undefeated heavyweight contender Calvin Brock will face IBF heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko on November 11. There were several other names mentioned as potential opponents, but Calvin Brock may prove to be the best opponent for Wladimir, after all. I have my always interesting short list of five reasons why this is a great matchup..
#1) The undefeated factor. Brock is undefeated. He is also ranked third by the IBF and is listed in the top ten in ring magazine. Being undefeated and legitimately ranked by ring magazine adds a lot of credibility as a challenger.
#2) The American versus Foreigner factor. Brock is American. There is so much pressure on American Heavyweights today to emerge as the top fighter in a division dominated by Eastern European fighters. Many people are waiting for the next great American hope. Rahman and Briggs touted themselves as saviors of the division and now undefeated Calvin Brock gets his shot as well.
#3) The class factor. Although many fight fans love the trash-talking fighters, I am a fan of the fighters who bring some class to the sport for a change. Brock and Klitschko have this in spades. Both men are respectful, educated, and bring a certain dignity to fighting which is always refreshing. What is so bad about a champion who always shows up in shape, can speak four languages and has a PHD?
#4) The Klitschko factor. Whether you are a fan of Wladimir or not, you have to admit his fights are always exciting. He has incredibly skill, yet he always seems vulnerable to being taken out. That factor alone will always make his fights interesting.
#5) The Brock factor. Is Calvin Brock the next big thing? Can he handle Klitschko’s skill and offense? Is he too green yet? Can he take a punch? Is Klitschko gonna struggle with him or knock him out? These are the questions that we all ask, and they will all be answered on November 11. I have a feeling this fight will be one to remember.