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Lewis came into this fight well out of shape and seemed quite unprepared -- whether the lack of preparation was due to the short notice of accepting this bout could be argued. However, I don't think he took Klitchko seriously -- and the good doctor took the fight right to the champ -- it was an awesome display of action for two huge men -- they were both exhausted when the fight was stopped -- who knows what might have happened as things continued... as badly chopped up as Klitchko's face really was, he did an outstanding job of beating Lewis to the punch time and time again -- and I believe had the fight gone the distance, Klitchko would likely have been able to continue to take the fight directly to Lewis (Klitchko said he could see out of that eye just fine) and ultimately become the new champion.
I don't think anyone can question Klitchko's heart OR his chin - consider that in Round 5 he took what was easily the hardest punch of the fight -- a massive uppercut -- from Lewis and while it "stopped" him for a second, it didn't appear to hurt him in the least -- that same punch has floored quite a few of Lewis' previous opponents.
I would be interested to see if Lewis grants Klitchko a rematch -- my money says he won't fight him again -- I could see him fighting Roy Jones Jr -- coming in to that fight in the best shape of his life to unify the title -- and upon beating him, retiring as undisputed champion. I agree that if he comes into that fight out of shape, Jones has a good chance of beating him.
In the interview afterwards, Lewis should have conceded to Klitchko's skill and heart and given him some credit. I applaud Larry Merchant for pressing Lewis hard with those post-fight questions. Sadly, I lost a measure of respect for Lewis, not so much as a fighter but as a man. Klitchko gave him a good run for his money and the champ would have done well to acknowledge that.
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