by Sam Rosenberg | Tue. July 27, 2010

Following the recent cancellation of the Alexander Povetkin vs Wladimir Klitschko bout, it's been nothing but groans from the boxing community - with the occasional profanity thrown in.

Boxing fans were looking forward to a potentially exciting World Heavyweight Championship fight, but are now left with another bland match-up as Samuel Peter substitutes for Povetkin in the ring. What may have been an important rematch 3-4 years ago is just another title defense. Peter's weight has fluctuated and his skills have diminished since he last met Wladimir in the ring.

Many are left wondering what happened with Povetkin and why in the world a fighter would not show up for a vital press conference for the Heavyweight Championship of the World. Is it possible Povetkin got an earful from Teddy Atlas?

Atlas, the Friday Night Fights ringside analyst currently serving as Povetkin's trainer, has never been shy in stating his opinions. 

When asked about Povetkin's progress and a potential showdown with Klitschko on a recent episode of Friday Night Fights, Atlas said, “I want more time with him before I'm sure he is ready,”

He also commented that Povetkin, "Deserves a chance to develop.”

It's not clear what role if any Atlas may have played in the cancellation of the fight, but from the above statements it's clear he was in no hurry to lead Povetkin into battle with Klitschko. When a head trainer is telling his fighter he’s not ready, there is only one decision that can be made - regardless of how unpopular that decision may prove to be with promoters.