‘Real Deal’ set to consider future
After 12 tight rounds, ‘Russian Giant’ Nikolai Valuev clinched a close majority decision, ahead 115-114 and 116-112 on two scorecards, while the third judge ruled it a 114-114 draw.
It was a spirited performance by the 46-year-old challenger, though, who almost clinched the heavyweight title for the fifth time.
Holyfield believes his display fully vindicated his decision to take part in the bout but he will return to the United States to reflect on the defeat and ponder his next move.
“Of course I am disappointed,” Holyfield said. “I thought I had done enough to get the win. Now I have to go home and think about my future.”
Holyfield (42-10-2) had not fought since losing a one-sided decision to then-WBO champion Sultan Ibragimov over a year ago, and was much criticised for this latest comeback attempt. Some critics suggested he was putting his health at risk by fighting at such an advanced age.
Still, the “Real Deal” appeared in great shape for the fight and was never seriously hurt by Valuev (51-1), who has avoided the top heavyweights and did little to improve his standing in the division.
He was vulnerable to Holyfield’s right hooks, many of which landed, even if the Russian also was never stunned.
“He made me work very hard for the win,” said Valuev, the overwhelming favourite and underwhelming winner.
“Holyfield was unbelievable with his speed. The fight was fought at a great tempo for the whole 12 rounds.”
Later rounds were largely uneventful, with the Atlanta native dancing and looking for the rare opportunity to attack in combinations. The Russian, who carried a weight advantage of almost 100 pounds, planted himself in the centre of the ring and rarely unleashed power punches.
“His hands are not as slow as everyone thinks they are,” Holyfield said.
For Valuev, it was the biggest win on a weak resume. He has so far refused to fight either of the Klitschko brothers, who hold the other major belts and are considered the top two heavyweights in the world.
Holyfield has refused to say if he would retire should he lose or draw against Valuev. Struggling with financial problems, Holyfield may try to use the better-than-expected result to score a big payday against another champion or Riddick Bowe, who has recently made a similarly worrisome comeback.
Holyfield won one of three epic battles against Bowe in the 1990s, when he beat Buster Douglas, George Foreman and Mike Tyson twice to become a dominating figure in the sport.
This fight was put on in front of 12,500 largely pro-Holyfield fans in Zurich’s Hallenstadion. Holyfield entered to a standing ovation, wearing a red robe fit for a king.
Valuev was booed, and there were even scattered whistles while the Russian national anthem played. The fans similarly showed their displeasure when the judges’ scorecards were read.
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