Boxing’s best offer predictions for Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury 2

Only four days away from Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury 2, some of the best boxers in the world past and present predict a winner.

Their first fight ended in a draw, but Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury each vow they will be the victor on Saturday, Feb. 22. Their rematch has garnered an abundance of attention. Now, some of the best boxers today and past greats offered up their predictions.

It seems like everyone has an opinion on whose arm will be raised after Wilder vs. Fury 2. Boxing writers are beginning to post official predictions, but experienced boxers bring a unique and expert vantage point to the table.

Via a press release from Swanson communications, here’s who some of the best current and former boxers believe will be the big winner on Feb. 22.

Voices for Wilder:

‘Sugar’ Ray Leonard:

“I like Deontay Wilder to win, possibly by knockout, but, in truth, I don’t see either guy being knocked out. I think that Wilder not only has that powerful right hand but that he has improved in his ability to set it up.”

Manny Pacquiao:

“Never bet against a puncher, particularly one like Deontay Wilder. I look at Wilder like I do at a Mike Tyson, another puncher. I see Wilder winning this rematch with Tyson Fury by 10th-round knockout.”

Thomas ‘The Hitman’ Hearns:

“Deontay Wilder can box and win, but I think that his power will be the difference in defeating Tyson Fury. I believe that it will go to a decision again, but with Deontay Wilder winning it.”

Evander Holyfield:

“I’m picking Deontay Wilder based on his confidence and the fact that he does all of the right things to remain in great shape, and that he’s committed to his craft.

“Wilder’s not just a big guy with a right hand, but he’s also become more calculated in his approach. That’s why I’m picking him to win this second fight against Tyson Fury.”

Mikey Garcia:

“I’ve got Deontay Wilder knocking out Tyson Fury in the eighth round. Wilder will be much more aggressive than he was in their first fight. Wilder will catch Fury with a big shot in the eighth round.”

And those backing Fury:

Andy Lee:

“Tyson Fury can win this fight with Deontay Wilder in any way that he wants, whether by stoppage or knockout or accumulation of punishment on points.

“But the way that Fury’s looking in training, I will say that he wins by stoppage or knockout, and I’ll say he wins in round number two.

“I’m a former Kronk Gym fighter, and he’s being trained by [Emanuel Steward’s nephew Javon] SugarHill Steward, and you know what all of us Kronk Gym fighters want – knockouts.”

Paulie Malignaggi:

“I feel like it’s going to be Tyson Fury on points, but it’s a fight between the two best fighters in the weight class.

“The onus is Deontay Wilder to make the adjustments, whereas if Fury fights the same fight, odds are, he’s probably going to get the decision.”

Robert Garcia:

“I see Tyson Fury winning by a decision over Deontay Wilder. Unlike the first time, where he was knocked down twice, I believe that Fury will fight more cautiously and that he’ll win a decision.”

Carl Frampton:

“I think it’s a very difficult fight to call. Fury won the last one by a mile, but I think Wilder will be more aggressive this time, which may play into Fury’s hands. Wilder can win by KO at any moment but put a gun to my head, and I’d say Fury on points.”

Michael Conlan:

“He needs to be even more careful this time, but he looks like he’s put in some serious work and is ready to finish what he started last time.”

Wilder vs. Fury 2 goes down on Saturday, Feb. 22, on pay-per-view. Coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET.