American Idol finale: David & David perform

It was part “Rocky” and part American Idol when contestants David Cook and David Archuleta squared off for the reality singing show’s championship match at the Nokia Theatre L.A. on Tuesday.

The pair entering the stage to the four-sequel boxing anthem blaring, shining boxing robes and red leather gloves and pugilist emcee Michael Buffer’s trademark catchphrase “Let’s get ready to ruuuuuumble!”

It was a clash that many, including lead judge Simon Cowell, had expected since mid-season.

Archuleta won the coin toss and strategically chose for Cook to start each round.

Cook and Archuleta bumped mitts and then took turns banging out three tunes each; a selection by mega-record executive Clive Davis, a selection from the top 10 from the song writing contest and contestant song choice.

From the start, there was no mistake that “Babyface” Archuleta was in it to win it; the 17-year-old from suburban Salt Lake City threw early leather with Elton John classic, “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me.” Archie’s footwork and stage presence were eye-catching while his long flowing vocal runs were tailor-fitted for the diminutive-sized balladeer to land heavy body shots on the opponent.

Cook traded blows with a classic of his own, U2’s “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For.” Although panelist Randy Jackson found it a, “great way to start off this duel” and Cowell rated it “phenomenal,” the British judge awarded Round One to Kid Archuleta.

It appeared that Cook hadn’t completely found his vibe. Round two didn’t put him any closer with songwriting contest tune “Dream Big.” The 25-year-old Missouri resident was pitch-on once again during the tinny Emily Shackelton musical score. Instead of taking large swipes with growling midrange vocals, Cook went to cool buzzing vocals and strums from the AC-adorned Les Paul. It appeared that “Sugarfoot” Cook was applying footwork and a rope-a-dope technique, waiting for an opportunity to reel off a finishing haymaker.

Cowell quickly saw through it. “Using the boxing analogy, it was a bit of a lightweight.” Video clips of pugilist announcer Jim Lampley appeared through the evening with suggestions that parallel the fight and song worlds. “Winning is about being able to trust your instincts,” Lampley said.

Archuleta took the advice and went to a more plodding, methodical approach with Ryan Gillmor’s “In This Moment” during the middle round. A stationary Archuleta generated power and asserted conviction with soaring highs and phrases like “this is my time … and no one can take it from me.”

The aspiring champ continued to tally points with the judges. Jackson found Kid Archie, “so in the zone” while an oozing Abdul said, “It’s like you’re on fire tonight. It’s pure magic.” Cowell found it a superior piece. “You definitely chose the better song there.” For Cook, it appeared that he was behind on many a person’s scorecard, his young competitor’s body blows beginning to take their toll. “Round two,” Cowell said, “goes to Archuleta.”

Cook needed to connect with a vocal bomb and few looping left hands from his six-string. Collective Soul’s “The World I Know” was a technically nifty and eye-watering demonstration of a blossoming artist. It was met with mixed reviews.

“One of the cool things about you is that you’re showing people tonight a lot of different sides of David Cook,” Jackson noted. Abdul added, “You’re standing in your truth … and delivering unbelievable songs with integrity and originality.” But Cowell’s take on the eye-watering croon confirmed it was shy of the lights-out shot essential for Cook to survive, “It was completely and utterly the wrong song choice for you on the night.”

Gaining strength with each passing round, Archuleta dashed any hopes for Cook by cleanly connecting with a warm, personable early-season hit, John Lennon’s “Imagine.” It was the finishing clout that left Cook – and a nation of ladies of all ages – a bit weak in the knees.

In the panel members’ minds, there was no doubt who would tote the Season Seven belt. “The best singer of season seven is right there,” Jackson said, pointing to Kid Archie. She third hit affected Abdul’s ability to speak, “You’ve left me speechless.” Cowell did all but raise Archuleta’s hand to confirm the outcome, “What we have witnessed is a knockout.”

Is there any hope for David Cook? The only puncher’s chance remaining is a last minute charge from his call-in following or that Archuleta voters’ phone lines are down for the 10-count.

Nonetheless, stranger things have transpired – in boxing and American Idol. Remember, anytime it comes to a decision, judges (in this case, voters at home) have made some unpredictable selections.

The American Idol Season Seven winner will be announced on the two-hour season finale Results Show 8-10 p.m. ET today on Fox.

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