Rahman - Barrett Prediction

On August 13th former heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman takes on Monte Barrett for something called the WBC "interim" title. Never mind about the sanctioning aspect to this tussle because what is important in this contest is that the winner goes on to face Vitali Klitschko, the WBC champion. Barrett is rated a bit high, but he's a well-conditioned and able fighter. Rahman is a mixed bag; brilliant in flashes, but inconsistent in an up-and-down career.

Hasim Rahman comes into an arena in one of two states: 1. overweight and unmotivated or 2. fit and sharp. Lately it’s been the latter.

Rahman at around 230 is a powerful hunter who operates behind a punishing and accurate left jab. His jab, reminiscent of a peak Sonny Liston’s primary weapon, can befuddle an opponent and reduce his will.

The other, fatter version of Rahman reduces him to a very ordinary heavyweight fighter. If there is one glaring weakness of Rahman – even in his best form – it’s his chin.

It has let him down against David Tua (though in disputed fashion), Oleg Maskaev, and Lennox Lewis.

Monte Barrett is always fit and makes the most of his abilities. He's riding high with wins over fringe contenders Dominick Guinn and Owen Beck. He also fought well while losing against former contender Joe Mesi.

His one major loss, a blow-out against Wladimir Klitschko, however, may be the most telling about what we may expect in his match with Rahman. He couldn’t punch hard enough to unhinge the big man and he couldn’t really get past Klitschko’s jab (or anything else).

Assuming Rahman is motivated for this one, he will crack his jab into Barrett’s face early and often. Look for Barrett to fade badly around round five. Look for a stoppage shortly thereafter. Rahman by KO in 7.