Klitschko vs. Pulev 2014: Date, fight time, TV schedule and odds

Wladimir Klitschko defending his heavyweight belts is nothing new. The veteran champ has defended some portion of his title 22 times during his career and has been the division’s ruler since 2006. What will be novel about his Saturday afternoon fight against undefeated Kubrat Pulev in Germany is that it will be televised on a major American broadcast.

Thanks to the decreasing popularity of the heavyweight division, Klitschko has had trouble getting his title fights picked up by US networks. But HBO swooped in late to grab the rights to his tumble with Pulev, giving stateside audiences a rare opportunity to tune in.

It should make for a good show. Klitschko is 62-3 and hasn’t lost a fight since 2004, but Pulev, a Bulgarian with a 20-0 record, will be the stiffest challenge he’s faced in some time. Pulev isn’t necessarily known for his power but has dropped four of his last five opponents. He’s five years younger than the 38-year-old Klitschko and, as a former soccer player, has impressive athleticism and mobility for his size. Most significantly, perhaps, Pulev gives up only an inch and a half of reach to Klitschko. The veteran champ’s ridiculous 81” reach has long been one of his most important advantages, but Pulev’s own length could help neutralize Klitschko’s dangerous jab.

Where: Hamburg, Germany

Time: 4:45 p.m. ET

TV: HBO