I haven't read through the thread so apologies in advance...

Firstly, I'm one of the rare few that generally speaking enjoys Wlad's fights. I actually enjoy his methodical domination and appreciate how his seemingly simple style nullifies every challenger.
That said, this fight was garbage. BUT, I don't put 1% of the blame for that on Wlad. If he can get away with it, and it makes it easier for him, he's going to do it. Who wouldn't?? Boxing first and foremost is about winning. There is no fighter in history that would purposely make a fight harder for himself when the ref is letting him make it easy. As a champion you should adapt to a few things, namely; the opponents strengths/weaknesses, the rules/customs/circumstances of the location of the fight and the nature and performance of the referee. You can't blame Wlad for doing that.

By the way-props to Povetkin for his heart and his will to win. If everyone took his attitude into the ring against Wlad we'd have a few interesting fights.