Dawson has the skill set to become and remain a great champion, but he needs to know his limitations (maybe he thinks he has none). He must work on his stamina (which was an issue in his close and controversial decision win over Glen Johnson and in his dominant win over Antonio Tarver); he needs to stay focused for each and very round. “Bad” tends to fight in spurts and then takes time off to recoup his energy--unlike, say, a Joe Calzaghe or Glen Johnson who seemingly fight and fight and fight with no time off. And there is another tough guy who lurks by the name of Adrian “The Shark” Diaconu.

If Dawson is Calzaghe‘s next opponent (assuming Joe fights on), will his style be made to order for the Pride of Wales? Will he be able to cope with Joe’s constant pressure (remember how Chad struggled in the Johnson fight), remarkable stamina (which allows for incredible punch volume which allows for taking an opponent out of his game), and his superior ring IQ?

Chad did not listen to his corner to "be careful" when he came out for the 12th round agaiint Tarver. While he showed a fighter's mentality, he also gave Tarver a chance to jolt him in the last minute, albeit with punches that lacke damaging pop. That told ME something and I'm sure Joe saw it as well.

Time will tell if Bad Chad is the new king in town--one who can clear out a light-heavyweight division which some say is now full of “aging legends.” I'm not yet sold that he can....not yet.