Povetkin Breezes By Hammer To Become WBA mandatory

Earlier today former WBA heavyweight championAlexander Povetkin (33-1, 23 KOs) won a twelve round unanimous decision over Christian Hammer (22-5, 12 KOs). With the win the former Olympic gold medalist becomes the mandatory challenger to Anthony Joshua’s WBA title.

Povetkin, who has been suspended and reprimanded for multiple failed drug tests is set to get another shot at a title now. Since losing to longtime heavyweight kingpin Wladimir Klitschko in 2013 he has won seven fights in a row and most recently beat Andriy Rudenko back in July.

The failed drug tests have caused Povetkin to miss out on the opportunity to capture another title. Last year he lost the opportunity to face WBC champion Deontay Wilder in his home country then in December he failed again right before facing former WBC champion Bermane Stiverne.

Tonighthe pretty much had his way with Hammer as he was the aggressor from the opening bell. Hammer did his best Adrien Broner imitation as he seemed to lack any desire to want to let his hands go throughout the fight.

The judges obviously watched the same fight as the scores were 120-107, 120-108 and 119-108. With Joshua and WBO champion Joseph Parker still going back and forth in the media, Povetkin could possibly end up being next in line should those negotiations fall apart. As for whether this opportunity is deserved is a topic for another day.