Andrey Tsurkan vs. Yuri Foreman
Tsurkan +170
1 unit
Light middleweights Andrey Tsurkan and Yuri Foreman square off Thursday night in the Bronx as part of Top Rank’s Fight Night series shown live on the Versus network. I got a first hand look at Foreman (23-0, 8 KO’s) during his last fight against Anthony Thompson on the Cotto-Judah under card and was generally unimpressed with his performance that night. Foreman eked out a split decision by scores of 97-93, 94-96 and 96-94 and although both men were guilty of excessive clinching and holding that night, Foreman did very little to actually win aside from staying out of the wild Thompson’s way. I don’t think that strategy will work tonight against the tough Russian, who is known for his punching power and accuracy. Tsurkan, 25-2, 16 KO’s, seems to be getting stronger, evidenced by the fact that he’s sent his last 4 opponents home inside the distance. His win against Hector Camacho, Jr. in June of 2006 was a close fight until Tsurkan’s power finally caught up with the dodgy Puerto Rican in the 8th round. I expect a similar result tonight with the initial rounds being close or even in Foreman’s favor. However, I think Foreman’s lack of offense will be his undoing against the more explosive Tsurkan, who should be able to take control of the fight somewhere in the middle to late rounds. Although a KO would be impressive result for the Russian (and profitable – a prop on Tsurkan inside the distance is available at a plump +472), I think the most likely result is a mild upset of a win by decision.
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