The Breakdown: Russian paratrooper and military Sambo stylist Kharitonov peaked early in his career, cutting a swath through an illustrious Pride heavyweight division and reaching the semi-finals of its star-studded heavyweight grand prix in 2004. What followed was a seemingly endless flood of injuries, which led to back-to-back defeats in 2006 and saw his stock plummet. Monson struggled with his form in 2007 but appears to be back in much better shape following four straight wins.
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The Prediction: The Kharitonov of old was certainly strong enough to finish a tough and durable fighter like Monson, but due to his history of injuries, a questionable training regimen and long breaks between fights, a knockout appears iffy. Still, expect the Russian to win a unanimous decision.