HOW PACQUIAO AND MAYWEATHER WOULD HAVE FARED AGAINST 10 ALL TIME GREATS?
By Tommy Canez
As great and dominant as Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr have been, it is a subject of great debate how they would have fared against some of the best fighters of past decades. If Floyd Mayweather struggled to beat a past his prime De La Hoya and Pacquiao struggled to beat Juan Manuel Marquez, how would they have beaten Leonard, Hearns, or Chavez ? Let's examine how each fighter would have fared against 10 fighters in or around their weight class.
10) Julio Cesar Chavez
Julio Cesar Chavez was one of the most devastating body punchers of all time. His come forward style combined with underrated defense got him to an undefeated record of 89-0-1 before finally losing. Chavez also had one of the best chins in the history of the sport and could absorb getting hit with everything but the kitchen sink and still kept coming forward.
vs Pacquiao
This would have been one of the most brutal and grueling fights in the history of boxing and would have definitely ended each other's careers in one night. Both fighters would have exchanged heavy leather, would have absorbed major punishment, and both would still have a willingness to keep fighting. Pacquiao's speed and power would have given Chavez fits just as Meldrick Taylor did but Chavez would have also had his moments landing his body and head punches while Pacquiao covered up to catch a breather. But due to the fact that Meldrick Taylor outlanded Chavez and was on his way to a decision had it not been for Richard Steele, this fight would have ended up in a draw or Pacquiao winning a razor thin decision. Pacquiao's punches from different angles and volume would have definitely caught the judges eyes.
vs Mayweather
Chavez Vs Mayweather would have been one of the best "boxer" vs "brawler" type of fights in history. Mayweather would have outlanded Chavez much the same as Taylor did, except with one shot at a time and combinations here and there. Floyd's lead right would have found its mark repeatedly but Chavez would have laughed at it. The determining factor would have been Chavez's consistent body shots and his ability to abosrb punishment and keep coming forward landing hard shots. Chavez would have punched right through Mayweather's shoulder while on the ropes and he would have patiently stalked and walked Mayweather down. Chavez's consistent body attack would have also opened up the opportunity for a right hand over the top. If Jose Luis Castillo was able to give Mayweather the toughest fight of his life, Chavez almost certainly would have defeated Mayweather by late round stoppage or by a close decision. Chavez was a 3 times better version of his old sparring partner Jose Luis Castillo.
9) Alexis Arguello
Alexis Arguello was a sharpshooting offensive master. He had explosive power, great ring generalship, and one of the best right hands in the history of the sport. Arguello could knock you out with either hand and his uppercut was equally devastating. While he was not a defensive genius, he was very adept at catching punches on the gloves.
vs Pacquiao
Alexis Arguello vs Manny Pacquiao at 140lbs would have been an instant classic. Arguello would have landed the right hand and uppercut early and with great consistency but Pacquiao would have been able to eat it all day, pound his gloves together, and still keep fighting. Pacquiao's combination punching, outstanding stamina, and side to side movement would have given Arguello the same problems Aaron Pryor did. Pacquiao would have overwhelmed Arguello with punches from all angles en route to a late round stoppage.
vs Mayweather
Arguello vs Mayweather would have been a one sided affair. Mayweather's straight right hand lead combined with his defensive wizardry and pot shotting would have given Arguello fits. Arguello would have been confused by Mayweather's shoulder roll and his great right hand would have consistantly rolled off Mayweather's shoulder. Arguello would have looked puzzled and would have had no answer for Mayweather's check hook and fast hands. But if Arguello could have landed his right hand flush, it would have possibly knocked Mayweather out cold. This fight would have certainly ended in a decision for Mayweather due to the fact that Mayweather would have avoided Arguello's power all night and played it safe.
8) Aaron Pryor
Aaron Pryor was an offensive machine and a real killer. Pryor truly came to the ring each time with a "kill or be killed" mentality. He set a pace that very few could match and would drive anyone insane by the pace he set. Pryor would overwhelm his opponents by throwing punches from all angles and had a never die attitude in the ring. His fast hands, relentless pressure, never stop punching mentality, and ability to absorb major punishment and still keep coming is legendary.
vs Pacquiao
Pryor vs Pacquiao would have beaten each other to a bloody pulp and one fighter would have most likely needed to be carried out in a stretcher in order for their to be a clear cut winner. Both fighters would have never tired and both would have never stopped punching. Both fighters would have punched from all odd angles, would have darted in and out after punching, and would have absorbed major punishment and still kept throwing punches. Both would have most likely put each other on the canvas at some point with each of them getting up to fight harder and faster. Pryor would have forced Pacquiao to back up in the later rounds and cut off the ring while landing a volume of shots to Pacquiao's body and head but Pacquiao would have definitely kept Pryor honest with his straight left, check right hook, and fast hands as well. One major factor that would have helped the judges determine the outcome would have been Pryor's ability to take advantage of Pacquiao's defensive weakness of lying on the ropes with his hands up while allowing Pryor to tee off on him. That would prove to be crucial against a fighter like Pryor who would not have stopped punching. These two fighters would have needed to fight a trilogy in order to for one to have emerged as the better fighter. If these two would have fought a trilogy, Pryor would have taken 2 out of 3 based on his ability to box just as effectively as he could brawl. This fight would have been Gatti-Ward x 3.
vs Mayweather
Pryor vs Mayweather would have been a give and take affair early on. The only reason this fight would have been competitive is due to the fact that Pryor had a tendency to leave his chin out in the open and Mayweather's accurate right hand would have found its mark. However, after 5-6 rounds, Pryor would have completely taken over the fight. Mayweather would have attempted to make Pryor fight down to his pace but Pryor would have had none of that. Pryor would have cut the ring off and made Mayweather fight to his fast pace while overwhelming Mayweather with a volume of punches. Pryor would have definitely forced Mayweather into a dog fight. There would have been no way that Mayweather would have been able to match Pryor's work rate or keep a fighter of Pryor's caliber off of him for a full 12 rounds. Pryor's blend of non stop combination punching from all angles, side to side movement, and "kill me" attitude would have made Mayweather wilt. Pryor would have won this fight by either a brutal late round stoppage or a decisive decision.
7) Wilfred Benitez
Wilfred Benitez was a world champion at age 17 and was one of the best defensive fighters to ever live. He had an uncanny ability to see punches coming before you threw them and react accordingly. He was a great tactician and had the ability to make his opponents pay for their mistakes. His biggest weakness was his lack of desire for training. It is said that he only trained for 2 weeks in preparation for his fight against Sugar Ray Leonard. His lack of dedication to training proved to be his downfall later in his career.
vs Pacquiao
Manny Pacquiao vs Wilfred Benitez at 147lbs would have looked very much like his fights against Marquez except in a more dominating fashion in favor of Benitez. Pacquiao would have looked confused and puzzled by Benitez and he would have paid dearly for it with razor sharp counters by Benitez. Benitez's awkward style and defensive wizardry along with his advantage in height would have given Pacquiao fits. Pacquiao would have landed 1 punch out of every 4-5 punch combination and would have become frustrated and left himself wide open for counters all night. This fight would certainly have been a 12 round decision for Wilfred Benitez.
vs Mayweather
Benitez vs Mayweather would be a closely contested match. It would be defensive genius against another defensive genius. The biggest difference in this fight would be Mayweather's height. At 5'8", his jab would have been much like Ray Leonard's up jab he used to disturb Benitez because it would be coming from a lower angle. Mayweather's sharp jab to the pit of the stomach would have also opened up the opportunity for the right hand down the pipe. Benitez would have his moments by making Mayweather miss and countering but the counters would have landed right on Floyd's shoulder and gloves. This fight would have been a decision in favor of Mayweather in a very tactical chess match.
6) Henry Armstrong
Henry Armstrong was a combination of Manny Pacquiao and Aaron Pryor in one fighter. If fans think James Kirkland's fighting style is aggressive, those same fans would think Henry Armstrong is an orthodox James Kirkland x 100. He was the first fighter to hold 3 different world titles in 3 separate weight classes. In addition, he had a granite chin and raw natural power and a shark like lung capacity. His non stop power punching style would have been a handful for anyone in the history of boxing. He had an ability to throw thudding punches from all angles and make his opponents fight him or get knocked out.
vs Pacquiao
Henry Armstrong would have punished Pacquiao like we have never seen Pacquiao punished before. This fight would certainly end in a brutal knockout of Pacquiao in 7-9 rounds. Pacquiao's combination punching and fast hands would have bounced off of Armstrong like BB's hitting a runaway train. Pacquiao would have had no answer for Armstrong's devasting body and head attack and Armstrong would have swarmed Pacquiao worse than killer bees. If Pacquiao were to have had any chance in this fight, he would have to fight the way De La Hoya fought Trinidad. However, Pacquiao has too much pride and heart and would have been forced to fight and he would have faced his reality. Henry Armstrong would have won 100 times out of 100.
vs Mayweather
Floyd Mayweather's one shot at a time, 1-2's, and move away style would not have worked against a fighter of Armstrong's abilities. Floyd's lead right hand would be like landing it on a brick wall. If Floyd dared to use the shoulder roll, it would have been very possible that Armstrong would have dislocated Floyd's shoulder from all the thudding punches Armstrong would have landed on it. Armstrong's speed, power, odd punching angles, and never stop coming style would have made Floyd succumb inside the distance. There is no way this fight would have went the distance in a 15, 12, or 10 round bout. Armstrong wins everytime by brutal stoppage.
In part two of this article, I will evaluate how Mayweather and Pacquiao would have fared against Whitaker, Duran, Hearns, Leonard, and Robinson.
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HOW WOULD MAYWEATHER AND PACQUIAO FARED AGAINST 10 ALL TIME GREATS? PART 2
By Tommy Canez
Last week, I examined how Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr would have fared against Julio Cesar Chavez, Alexis Arguello, Aaron Pryor, Wilfred Benitez, and Henry Armstrong. Now, we will take a deeper look on how they most likely would have fared against the next 5 best fighters of all time : Pernell Whitaker, Roberto Duran, Thomas Hearns, Sugar Ray Leonard, and Sugar Ray Robinson.
5) Pernell Whitaker
Pernell Whitaker was one of the top 5 defensive geniuses of all time. He had the ability to frustrate his opponents by standing right in front of them with his hands around his waist and making them miss. Whitaker was a very unorthodox boxer puncher who had a superior jab, hand speed, great ring generalship, and also had underrated body punching skills. Pernell Whitaker was a true practioner of the "sweet science".
vs Pacquiao
Prime vs Prime, this fight would have been in favor of Whitaker. Whitaker's defensive wizardry would have been to Pacquiao what a calculus problem is to a 1st grade math student. Pacquiao would be unable to solve the problem. But Pacquiao's frenetic style would have been enough to trouble Whitaker in certain spots because Whitaker would have been very aware of his dangerous power, forcing Whitaker to become defensive and allowing Pacquiao to steal rounds based on Pacquiao's effective aggressiveness. Pacquiao would be able to keep this fight interesting based on the fact that Whitaker was never a one puncher KO artist and his power would not be that bothersome to Pacquiao. The determing factor would have most likely been Pacquiao's inability to land cleanly enough due to the fact that Whitaker's superior all around style. Whitaker would have won a razor thin decision. However, if the right judges were judging this fight and they favored aggressiveness, then Pacquiao could have pulled out a narrow decision.
Vs. Mayweather
Defensive genius vs Defensive genius. Pace setter vs Pace setter. Pure boxer vs Pure boxer. This fight would have been the ultimate display of the sweet science at its best. Mayweather would have fought this fight the same way he fights all southpaws, with a high guard, lead right hand, scraping hard shots to the body, and shoulder rolling. On the other hand, Whitaker would have more than likely fought Floyd by confusing him with his great jab, inside body punching, and consistently changing angles on him. On the inside, Whitaker would have had a slight edge because he was a better body puncher than Floyd. The outcome of this fight would have largely depended on who would have been able to impose their will towards the end of the fight based on the fact that they are so equally matched. Mayweather's faster hands, harder punches, athleticism, and jab to the pit of the stomach and heart would have most likely carried him to a razor thin controversial decision with Whitaker claiming he was robbed.
4) Roberto Duran
Roberto Duran was one of the greatest fighters in the history of boxing. He had power, ring intelligence, inside fighting skills, solid counter punching skills, and defensive prowess. He could box coming forward while slipping, ducking, and rolling punches. He could cut off the ring as effectively as anybody in the sport because of his ability to close the distance with his fast feet. He could feint his way inside and unleash his vicious body attack. He had the mentality of "punch through the target, not at the target". Simply said, Roberto Duran could have beaten any lightweight in the history of boxing and beaten any welterweight not named Ray Robinson.
Vs Pacquiao
Manny Pacquiao vs. Roberto Duran would have been fought in a telephone booth. Pacquiao's ability to dart in and out of danger would have been taken away by Duran. There would have been darting in by Pacquiao but there would have been no darting out. Duran would have been right there with him punishing him with murderous shots to the body and head. Pacquiao's straight left and combination punching would have certainly kept Duran honest but his defensive intelligence would have prevented most of those punches from landing cleanly. The main difference why Duran would have won this fight is because of Pacquiao's weakness of "cover up to catch a breather" defense. Pacquiao's "catch a breather" defense would have felt like he was climbing Mount Everest if he attempted it with Duran because of Duran's ability to unleash his vicious body attack. Although Pacquiao is a sharpshooting machine, he cannot fight in a Ray Leonard type of style by sticking and moving which would have led to his demise against a fighter of Duran's caliber. Duran's body punching would have carried him to a 8-4 or 7-5 type of decision.
Vs Mayweather
Mayweather would have had to fight Duran the same way he did with Baldomir by running, moving, and not willing to take risks. The difference would have been that Duran would have chased him down and attacked him like a lion attacking his prey. If Mayweather attempted to pot shot from the outside, he would have infuriated Duran and made him more aggressive. Duran would have been able to close the distance and cut off the ring better than Baldomir while avoiding punches and unleashing his vicious body attack. If Mayweather chose to stand in the middle of the ring, he would have been outmuscled and mauled by Duran. If he decided to try to box in circles, Duran would have given him a mental breakdown because of the constant pressure, power punching, and ability to close the distance fast. If Mayweather tried to use his dirty tricks such as his classic "elbow to neck", Duran would have thrown vicious elbows and low blows to show him who the boss is. Mayweather's inability to shoe shine in close quarters would have been his undoing. No matter what strategy Mayweather would have tried, Duran would have had an answer for it. The outcome of this fight would have been a knockout of Mayweather in a late round stoppage against the harder punching, more rounded, intelligent fighter, Roberto Duran.
3) Thomas Hearns
Thomas Hearns was one of the most devasting punchers of all time. Whenever Tommy Hearns' right hand landed flush, it was like a bazooka hitting its target. Hearns also posessed a superior, long, snapping, and powerful jab which was also one of the best jabs in the history of boxing. He could use the jab coming forward or to box an opponent. Hearns was also never outboxed in his entire career, even by opponents who were considered to be better boxers than him. Hearns also had very underrated hand speed which many of his opponent's underestimated. In order to beat Hearns, opponents had to crowd him and take away his space much like Hagler and Leonard did.
Vs Pacquiao
A Pacquiao vs Hearns matchup would have been a complete mismatch. Pacquiao would have been too small to compete with such a skilled murderous puncher as Tommy Hearns. Hearn's height and reach would have been too much for the smaller Pacquiao to overcome. Pacquiao's only chance would have been to crowd Hearns the same way Hagler did and not give him room to breathe. However, if Pacquiao would have attempted such a foolish act, he would have been knocked out and hurt badly. Hearns would have started on the first round utilizing his snapping, hard jab to keep Pacquiao at bay with right hand bombs coming right behind the jabs. Although Pacquiao's ability to take a punch is next to none, his chin would not have held up against the powerful Hearns. The first flush right hand that would have landed would have been lights out for Pacquiao. This fight would have been reminiscent of Hagler-Hearns except Hearns would have knocked out Pacquiao inside of 3-5 rounds maximum.
Vs Mayweather
Floyd Mayweather's uncle Roger once stated that the key to beating his nephew is by using the jab. Well Hearns' jab was as good as anybody who ever laced up a pair of boxing gloves. Mayweather would not have been able to outbox Hearns considering the fact that Tommy was never outboxed. If Floyd attempted to press the fight the same way Leonard and Hagler did, it would been an early night. Hearns would have brutally knocked Mayweather out. Floyd's jab to the pit of the stomach, check left hook, pull back counter, or lead right hand would not have been enough to earn Tommy's respect. If Floyd attempted the pull back counter, Hearn's right hand would have landed before Floyd's and the fight would have been instantly over. The only way for Mayweather could have survived this fight would have been for him to run and run fast. Hearns would have won this fight by brutal KO or by giving Floyd the beating of his life en route to a unanimous decision.
2) Sugar Ray Leonard
Sugar Ray Leonard was a classic boxer-puncher and was the complete package. He could dance and box as swiftly as a prime Ali or he could turn slugger and press the action. Leonard could throw every punch in the book from jabs, hooks, uppercuts, and right hands. He could punch in flurries as fast as any fighter in the history of the sport. He had speed, power, stamina, high ring IQ, foot speed, great chin, mental toughness, and understood the psychology of boxing as good as Ali. He was also an intellectual and had charisma which made him a media favorite.
Vs Pacquiao
Sugar Ray Leonard vs Manny Pacquiao would have been a classic display of heart, determination, and will and skill. Both fighters would have utilized their hand speed, power punching, and fast feet to try out do each other. Leonard's fast combination punching and jab would have kept Pacquiao at bay. But Pacquiao's ability to dip to his right and land the left or dip to his left and land his right would have also been problematic for Leonard. This fight would have certainly had both fighters taste the canvas at some point with each fighter getting into an animalistic frame of mind after getting up. Leonard would have almost certainly used the bolo punch and the Ali shuffle to get inside Pacquiao's head which would have angered Pacquiao and played right into Leonard's hands. The determining factor would have been Leonard's considerable advantages in height, reach, and overall size combined with skill. Although this fight would have been very competitive for the first half, Leonard would have most likely TKO'd Pacquiao in the later rounds due to his superior skills in every department.
Vs Mayweather
Mayweather Jr once disrespected Sugar Ray by telling him he would have beat him if the two ever fought in their primes. However, Floyd struggling to beat a past his prime De La Hoya would say otherwise. In his prime, Leonard was 10 times better than Oscar. Leonard would have not stopped using the jab. He would not have became fatigued as the fight wore on. And Leonard would have put some serious power behind his fast power punches. That could have only spelled disaster for Mayweather Jr. But let's give credit for credit is due. Mayweather's shoulder rolling, lead right hand, leaping left hooks, and his defensive prowess would have given Leonard fits in the early going. The fight would have been a give and take affair for 3 quarters of the fight based on the fact that both fighters are so gifted. After that, it would be Leonard who would impose his will on Floyd. He would have pinned Mayweather against the ropes and unleased a vicious head and body attack. If Mayweather could spin off the ropes and take the fight to the middle of the ring, Leonard's consistent jab would have more than likely swelled Mayweather's eye and limited his vision. With Mayweather's inability to see, Leonard would have moved in and landed his classic combination of right uppercut to the body, left hook to the head, and right hand over the top, and Mayweather would have wilted and went into full retreat mode. Leonard would have also had the psychological edge on Mayweather by Leonard's use of the Ali shuffle and bolo punch. In short, Leonard's appetite to take more risks is what would have carried him to a victory by a late round stoppage or a clear cut decision.
1) Sugar Ray Robinson
If there was ever a such thing as a perfect fighter, Sugar Ray Robinson was the poster boy. Robinson had mental toughness, perfect balance, lateral movement, amazing hand speed, never ending stamina, one punch knockout power in either hand, could move like a butterfly, had a chin made of cast iron, amazing defense, and his body punching was superb. Robinson was also one of the greatest finishers in the history of boxing. He could box going forward, going backwards, and going sideways.
Vs Pacquiao
Unfortunately, this fight would have only lasted 1-3 rounds. Pacquiao's power landing on Robinson would have been like a marshmallow being thrown at a lion's head. In Robinson's era, he was acustomed to getting hit with 6oz gloves by hard punchers. Once Robinson would have landed a combination on Pacquiao, he would have been seriously hurt. Pacquiao's pride would have made him get up but Robinson would have moved in for the kill. Robinson would win this fight by one of the most brutal knockouts in the history of boxing. More than likely, Robinson would have took a few years off Pacquiao's career, if not ended it.
Vs Mayweather
A fight vs Sugar Ray Robinson would have been too much to ask of Floyd Mayweather Jr. There would have been a huge disparity in skill, power, size, heart, and speed if Mayweather would have ever fought a fighter of Robinson's caliber. Unfortunately, Mayweather, just like Pacquiao, would have been knocked out in brutal fashion and his career shortened and possibly ended in one night. There would have been nothing Mayweather could have done to compete with Sugar Ray Robinson. Shoulder rolling, elbows to neck, pot shotting, pull back counters, check hooks, and pretty much everything Mayweather would have attempted would have been nullified by Robinson. It would have never even got to a point where Mayweather could have attempted any of that because Robinson would have put him to sleep in less than 3 rounds. This fight would have been one of the biggest mismatches in the history of boxing. Mayweather's only chance of getting out of this fight without sustaining any serious injuries would have been for him to pull a "no mas" after one round with Robinson.
By Tommy Canez
As great and dominant as Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr have been, it is a subject of great debate how they would have fared against some of the best fighters of past decades. If Floyd Mayweather struggled to beat a past his prime De La Hoya and Pacquiao struggled to beat Juan Manuel Marquez, how would they have beaten Leonard, Hearns, or Chavez ? Let's examine how each fighter would have fared against 10 fighters in or around their weight class.
10) Julio Cesar Chavez
Julio Cesar Chavez was one of the most devastating body punchers of all time. His come forward style combined with underrated defense got him to an undefeated record of 89-0-1 before finally losing. Chavez also had one of the best chins in the history of the sport and could absorb getting hit with everything but the kitchen sink and still kept coming forward.
vs Pacquiao
This would have been one of the most brutal and grueling fights in the history of boxing and would have definitely ended each other's careers in one night. Both fighters would have exchanged heavy leather, would have absorbed major punishment, and both would still have a willingness to keep fighting. Pacquiao's speed and power would have given Chavez fits just as Meldrick Taylor did but Chavez would have also had his moments landing his body and head punches while Pacquiao covered up to catch a breather. But due to the fact that Meldrick Taylor outlanded Chavez and was on his way to a decision had it not been for Richard Steele, this fight would have ended up in a draw or Pacquiao winning a razor thin decision. Pacquiao's punches from different angles and volume would have definitely caught the judges eyes.
vs Mayweather
Chavez Vs Mayweather would have been one of the best "boxer" vs "brawler" type of fights in history. Mayweather would have outlanded Chavez much the same as Taylor did, except with one shot at a time and combinations here and there. Floyd's lead right would have found its mark repeatedly but Chavez would have laughed at it. The determining factor would have been Chavez's consistent body shots and his ability to abosrb punishment and keep coming forward landing hard shots. Chavez would have punched right through Mayweather's shoulder while on the ropes and he would have patiently stalked and walked Mayweather down. Chavez's consistent body attack would have also opened up the opportunity for a right hand over the top. If Jose Luis Castillo was able to give Mayweather the toughest fight of his life, Chavez almost certainly would have defeated Mayweather by late round stoppage or by a close decision. Chavez was a 3 times better version of his old sparring partner Jose Luis Castillo.
9) Alexis Arguello
Alexis Arguello was a sharpshooting offensive master. He had explosive power, great ring generalship, and one of the best right hands in the history of the sport. Arguello could knock you out with either hand and his uppercut was equally devastating. While he was not a defensive genius, he was very adept at catching punches on the gloves.
vs Pacquiao
Alexis Arguello vs Manny Pacquiao at 140lbs would have been an instant classic. Arguello would have landed the right hand and uppercut early and with great consistency but Pacquiao would have been able to eat it all day, pound his gloves together, and still keep fighting. Pacquiao's combination punching, outstanding stamina, and side to side movement would have given Arguello the same problems Aaron Pryor did. Pacquiao would have overwhelmed Arguello with punches from all angles en route to a late round stoppage.
vs Mayweather
Arguello vs Mayweather would have been a one sided affair. Mayweather's straight right hand lead combined with his defensive wizardry and pot shotting would have given Arguello fits. Arguello would have been confused by Mayweather's shoulder roll and his great right hand would have consistantly rolled off Mayweather's shoulder. Arguello would have looked puzzled and would have had no answer for Mayweather's check hook and fast hands. But if Arguello could have landed his right hand flush, it would have possibly knocked Mayweather out cold. This fight would have certainly ended in a decision for Mayweather due to the fact that Mayweather would have avoided Arguello's power all night and played it safe.
8) Aaron Pryor
Aaron Pryor was an offensive machine and a real killer. Pryor truly came to the ring each time with a "kill or be killed" mentality. He set a pace that very few could match and would drive anyone insane by the pace he set. Pryor would overwhelm his opponents by throwing punches from all angles and had a never die attitude in the ring. His fast hands, relentless pressure, never stop punching mentality, and ability to absorb major punishment and still keep coming is legendary.
vs Pacquiao
Pryor vs Pacquiao would have beaten each other to a bloody pulp and one fighter would have most likely needed to be carried out in a stretcher in order for their to be a clear cut winner. Both fighters would have never tired and both would have never stopped punching. Both fighters would have punched from all odd angles, would have darted in and out after punching, and would have absorbed major punishment and still kept throwing punches. Both would have most likely put each other on the canvas at some point with each of them getting up to fight harder and faster. Pryor would have forced Pacquiao to back up in the later rounds and cut off the ring while landing a volume of shots to Pacquiao's body and head but Pacquiao would have definitely kept Pryor honest with his straight left, check right hook, and fast hands as well. One major factor that would have helped the judges determine the outcome would have been Pryor's ability to take advantage of Pacquiao's defensive weakness of lying on the ropes with his hands up while allowing Pryor to tee off on him. That would prove to be crucial against a fighter like Pryor who would not have stopped punching. These two fighters would have needed to fight a trilogy in order to for one to have emerged as the better fighter. If these two would have fought a trilogy, Pryor would have taken 2 out of 3 based on his ability to box just as effectively as he could brawl. This fight would have been Gatti-Ward x 3.
vs Mayweather
Pryor vs Mayweather would have been a give and take affair early on. The only reason this fight would have been competitive is due to the fact that Pryor had a tendency to leave his chin out in the open and Mayweather's accurate right hand would have found its mark. However, after 5-6 rounds, Pryor would have completely taken over the fight. Mayweather would have attempted to make Pryor fight down to his pace but Pryor would have had none of that. Pryor would have cut the ring off and made Mayweather fight to his fast pace while overwhelming Mayweather with a volume of punches. Pryor would have definitely forced Mayweather into a dog fight. There would have been no way that Mayweather would have been able to match Pryor's work rate or keep a fighter of Pryor's caliber off of him for a full 12 rounds. Pryor's blend of non stop combination punching from all angles, side to side movement, and "kill me" attitude would have made Mayweather wilt. Pryor would have won this fight by either a brutal late round stoppage or a decisive decision.
7) Wilfred Benitez
Wilfred Benitez was a world champion at age 17 and was one of the best defensive fighters to ever live. He had an uncanny ability to see punches coming before you threw them and react accordingly. He was a great tactician and had the ability to make his opponents pay for their mistakes. His biggest weakness was his lack of desire for training. It is said that he only trained for 2 weeks in preparation for his fight against Sugar Ray Leonard. His lack of dedication to training proved to be his downfall later in his career.
vs Pacquiao
Manny Pacquiao vs Wilfred Benitez at 147lbs would have looked very much like his fights against Marquez except in a more dominating fashion in favor of Benitez. Pacquiao would have looked confused and puzzled by Benitez and he would have paid dearly for it with razor sharp counters by Benitez. Benitez's awkward style and defensive wizardry along with his advantage in height would have given Pacquiao fits. Pacquiao would have landed 1 punch out of every 4-5 punch combination and would have become frustrated and left himself wide open for counters all night. This fight would certainly have been a 12 round decision for Wilfred Benitez.
vs Mayweather
Benitez vs Mayweather would be a closely contested match. It would be defensive genius against another defensive genius. The biggest difference in this fight would be Mayweather's height. At 5'8", his jab would have been much like Ray Leonard's up jab he used to disturb Benitez because it would be coming from a lower angle. Mayweather's sharp jab to the pit of the stomach would have also opened up the opportunity for the right hand down the pipe. Benitez would have his moments by making Mayweather miss and countering but the counters would have landed right on Floyd's shoulder and gloves. This fight would have been a decision in favor of Mayweather in a very tactical chess match.
6) Henry Armstrong
Henry Armstrong was a combination of Manny Pacquiao and Aaron Pryor in one fighter. If fans think James Kirkland's fighting style is aggressive, those same fans would think Henry Armstrong is an orthodox James Kirkland x 100. He was the first fighter to hold 3 different world titles in 3 separate weight classes. In addition, he had a granite chin and raw natural power and a shark like lung capacity. His non stop power punching style would have been a handful for anyone in the history of boxing. He had an ability to throw thudding punches from all angles and make his opponents fight him or get knocked out.
vs Pacquiao
Henry Armstrong would have punished Pacquiao like we have never seen Pacquiao punished before. This fight would certainly end in a brutal knockout of Pacquiao in 7-9 rounds. Pacquiao's combination punching and fast hands would have bounced off of Armstrong like BB's hitting a runaway train. Pacquiao would have had no answer for Armstrong's devasting body and head attack and Armstrong would have swarmed Pacquiao worse than killer bees. If Pacquiao were to have had any chance in this fight, he would have to fight the way De La Hoya fought Trinidad. However, Pacquiao has too much pride and heart and would have been forced to fight and he would have faced his reality. Henry Armstrong would have won 100 times out of 100.
vs Mayweather
Floyd Mayweather's one shot at a time, 1-2's, and move away style would not have worked against a fighter of Armstrong's abilities. Floyd's lead right hand would be like landing it on a brick wall. If Floyd dared to use the shoulder roll, it would have been very possible that Armstrong would have dislocated Floyd's shoulder from all the thudding punches Armstrong would have landed on it. Armstrong's speed, power, odd punching angles, and never stop coming style would have made Floyd succumb inside the distance. There is no way this fight would have went the distance in a 15, 12, or 10 round bout. Armstrong wins everytime by brutal stoppage.
In part two of this article, I will evaluate how Mayweather and Pacquiao would have fared against Whitaker, Duran, Hearns, Leonard, and Robinson.
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HOW WOULD MAYWEATHER AND PACQUIAO FARED AGAINST 10 ALL TIME GREATS? PART 2
By Tommy Canez
Last week, I examined how Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr would have fared against Julio Cesar Chavez, Alexis Arguello, Aaron Pryor, Wilfred Benitez, and Henry Armstrong. Now, we will take a deeper look on how they most likely would have fared against the next 5 best fighters of all time : Pernell Whitaker, Roberto Duran, Thomas Hearns, Sugar Ray Leonard, and Sugar Ray Robinson.
5) Pernell Whitaker
Pernell Whitaker was one of the top 5 defensive geniuses of all time. He had the ability to frustrate his opponents by standing right in front of them with his hands around his waist and making them miss. Whitaker was a very unorthodox boxer puncher who had a superior jab, hand speed, great ring generalship, and also had underrated body punching skills. Pernell Whitaker was a true practioner of the "sweet science".
vs Pacquiao
Prime vs Prime, this fight would have been in favor of Whitaker. Whitaker's defensive wizardry would have been to Pacquiao what a calculus problem is to a 1st grade math student. Pacquiao would be unable to solve the problem. But Pacquiao's frenetic style would have been enough to trouble Whitaker in certain spots because Whitaker would have been very aware of his dangerous power, forcing Whitaker to become defensive and allowing Pacquiao to steal rounds based on Pacquiao's effective aggressiveness. Pacquiao would be able to keep this fight interesting based on the fact that Whitaker was never a one puncher KO artist and his power would not be that bothersome to Pacquiao. The determing factor would have most likely been Pacquiao's inability to land cleanly enough due to the fact that Whitaker's superior all around style. Whitaker would have won a razor thin decision. However, if the right judges were judging this fight and they favored aggressiveness, then Pacquiao could have pulled out a narrow decision.
Vs. Mayweather
Defensive genius vs Defensive genius. Pace setter vs Pace setter. Pure boxer vs Pure boxer. This fight would have been the ultimate display of the sweet science at its best. Mayweather would have fought this fight the same way he fights all southpaws, with a high guard, lead right hand, scraping hard shots to the body, and shoulder rolling. On the other hand, Whitaker would have more than likely fought Floyd by confusing him with his great jab, inside body punching, and consistently changing angles on him. On the inside, Whitaker would have had a slight edge because he was a better body puncher than Floyd. The outcome of this fight would have largely depended on who would have been able to impose their will towards the end of the fight based on the fact that they are so equally matched. Mayweather's faster hands, harder punches, athleticism, and jab to the pit of the stomach and heart would have most likely carried him to a razor thin controversial decision with Whitaker claiming he was robbed.
4) Roberto Duran
Roberto Duran was one of the greatest fighters in the history of boxing. He had power, ring intelligence, inside fighting skills, solid counter punching skills, and defensive prowess. He could box coming forward while slipping, ducking, and rolling punches. He could cut off the ring as effectively as anybody in the sport because of his ability to close the distance with his fast feet. He could feint his way inside and unleash his vicious body attack. He had the mentality of "punch through the target, not at the target". Simply said, Roberto Duran could have beaten any lightweight in the history of boxing and beaten any welterweight not named Ray Robinson.
Vs Pacquiao
Manny Pacquiao vs. Roberto Duran would have been fought in a telephone booth. Pacquiao's ability to dart in and out of danger would have been taken away by Duran. There would have been darting in by Pacquiao but there would have been no darting out. Duran would have been right there with him punishing him with murderous shots to the body and head. Pacquiao's straight left and combination punching would have certainly kept Duran honest but his defensive intelligence would have prevented most of those punches from landing cleanly. The main difference why Duran would have won this fight is because of Pacquiao's weakness of "cover up to catch a breather" defense. Pacquiao's "catch a breather" defense would have felt like he was climbing Mount Everest if he attempted it with Duran because of Duran's ability to unleash his vicious body attack. Although Pacquiao is a sharpshooting machine, he cannot fight in a Ray Leonard type of style by sticking and moving which would have led to his demise against a fighter of Duran's caliber. Duran's body punching would have carried him to a 8-4 or 7-5 type of decision.
Vs Mayweather
Mayweather would have had to fight Duran the same way he did with Baldomir by running, moving, and not willing to take risks. The difference would have been that Duran would have chased him down and attacked him like a lion attacking his prey. If Mayweather attempted to pot shot from the outside, he would have infuriated Duran and made him more aggressive. Duran would have been able to close the distance and cut off the ring better than Baldomir while avoiding punches and unleashing his vicious body attack. If Mayweather chose to stand in the middle of the ring, he would have been outmuscled and mauled by Duran. If he decided to try to box in circles, Duran would have given him a mental breakdown because of the constant pressure, power punching, and ability to close the distance fast. If Mayweather tried to use his dirty tricks such as his classic "elbow to neck", Duran would have thrown vicious elbows and low blows to show him who the boss is. Mayweather's inability to shoe shine in close quarters would have been his undoing. No matter what strategy Mayweather would have tried, Duran would have had an answer for it. The outcome of this fight would have been a knockout of Mayweather in a late round stoppage against the harder punching, more rounded, intelligent fighter, Roberto Duran.
3) Thomas Hearns
Thomas Hearns was one of the most devasting punchers of all time. Whenever Tommy Hearns' right hand landed flush, it was like a bazooka hitting its target. Hearns also posessed a superior, long, snapping, and powerful jab which was also one of the best jabs in the history of boxing. He could use the jab coming forward or to box an opponent. Hearns was also never outboxed in his entire career, even by opponents who were considered to be better boxers than him. Hearns also had very underrated hand speed which many of his opponent's underestimated. In order to beat Hearns, opponents had to crowd him and take away his space much like Hagler and Leonard did.
Vs Pacquiao
A Pacquiao vs Hearns matchup would have been a complete mismatch. Pacquiao would have been too small to compete with such a skilled murderous puncher as Tommy Hearns. Hearn's height and reach would have been too much for the smaller Pacquiao to overcome. Pacquiao's only chance would have been to crowd Hearns the same way Hagler did and not give him room to breathe. However, if Pacquiao would have attempted such a foolish act, he would have been knocked out and hurt badly. Hearns would have started on the first round utilizing his snapping, hard jab to keep Pacquiao at bay with right hand bombs coming right behind the jabs. Although Pacquiao's ability to take a punch is next to none, his chin would not have held up against the powerful Hearns. The first flush right hand that would have landed would have been lights out for Pacquiao. This fight would have been reminiscent of Hagler-Hearns except Hearns would have knocked out Pacquiao inside of 3-5 rounds maximum.
Vs Mayweather
Floyd Mayweather's uncle Roger once stated that the key to beating his nephew is by using the jab. Well Hearns' jab was as good as anybody who ever laced up a pair of boxing gloves. Mayweather would not have been able to outbox Hearns considering the fact that Tommy was never outboxed. If Floyd attempted to press the fight the same way Leonard and Hagler did, it would been an early night. Hearns would have brutally knocked Mayweather out. Floyd's jab to the pit of the stomach, check left hook, pull back counter, or lead right hand would not have been enough to earn Tommy's respect. If Floyd attempted the pull back counter, Hearn's right hand would have landed before Floyd's and the fight would have been instantly over. The only way for Mayweather could have survived this fight would have been for him to run and run fast. Hearns would have won this fight by brutal KO or by giving Floyd the beating of his life en route to a unanimous decision.
2) Sugar Ray Leonard
Sugar Ray Leonard was a classic boxer-puncher and was the complete package. He could dance and box as swiftly as a prime Ali or he could turn slugger and press the action. Leonard could throw every punch in the book from jabs, hooks, uppercuts, and right hands. He could punch in flurries as fast as any fighter in the history of the sport. He had speed, power, stamina, high ring IQ, foot speed, great chin, mental toughness, and understood the psychology of boxing as good as Ali. He was also an intellectual and had charisma which made him a media favorite.
Vs Pacquiao
Sugar Ray Leonard vs Manny Pacquiao would have been a classic display of heart, determination, and will and skill. Both fighters would have utilized their hand speed, power punching, and fast feet to try out do each other. Leonard's fast combination punching and jab would have kept Pacquiao at bay. But Pacquiao's ability to dip to his right and land the left or dip to his left and land his right would have also been problematic for Leonard. This fight would have certainly had both fighters taste the canvas at some point with each fighter getting into an animalistic frame of mind after getting up. Leonard would have almost certainly used the bolo punch and the Ali shuffle to get inside Pacquiao's head which would have angered Pacquiao and played right into Leonard's hands. The determining factor would have been Leonard's considerable advantages in height, reach, and overall size combined with skill. Although this fight would have been very competitive for the first half, Leonard would have most likely TKO'd Pacquiao in the later rounds due to his superior skills in every department.
Vs Mayweather
Mayweather Jr once disrespected Sugar Ray by telling him he would have beat him if the two ever fought in their primes. However, Floyd struggling to beat a past his prime De La Hoya would say otherwise. In his prime, Leonard was 10 times better than Oscar. Leonard would have not stopped using the jab. He would not have became fatigued as the fight wore on. And Leonard would have put some serious power behind his fast power punches. That could have only spelled disaster for Mayweather Jr. But let's give credit for credit is due. Mayweather's shoulder rolling, lead right hand, leaping left hooks, and his defensive prowess would have given Leonard fits in the early going. The fight would have been a give and take affair for 3 quarters of the fight based on the fact that both fighters are so gifted. After that, it would be Leonard who would impose his will on Floyd. He would have pinned Mayweather against the ropes and unleased a vicious head and body attack. If Mayweather could spin off the ropes and take the fight to the middle of the ring, Leonard's consistent jab would have more than likely swelled Mayweather's eye and limited his vision. With Mayweather's inability to see, Leonard would have moved in and landed his classic combination of right uppercut to the body, left hook to the head, and right hand over the top, and Mayweather would have wilted and went into full retreat mode. Leonard would have also had the psychological edge on Mayweather by Leonard's use of the Ali shuffle and bolo punch. In short, Leonard's appetite to take more risks is what would have carried him to a victory by a late round stoppage or a clear cut decision.
1) Sugar Ray Robinson
If there was ever a such thing as a perfect fighter, Sugar Ray Robinson was the poster boy. Robinson had mental toughness, perfect balance, lateral movement, amazing hand speed, never ending stamina, one punch knockout power in either hand, could move like a butterfly, had a chin made of cast iron, amazing defense, and his body punching was superb. Robinson was also one of the greatest finishers in the history of boxing. He could box going forward, going backwards, and going sideways.
Vs Pacquiao
Unfortunately, this fight would have only lasted 1-3 rounds. Pacquiao's power landing on Robinson would have been like a marshmallow being thrown at a lion's head. In Robinson's era, he was acustomed to getting hit with 6oz gloves by hard punchers. Once Robinson would have landed a combination on Pacquiao, he would have been seriously hurt. Pacquiao's pride would have made him get up but Robinson would have moved in for the kill. Robinson would win this fight by one of the most brutal knockouts in the history of boxing. More than likely, Robinson would have took a few years off Pacquiao's career, if not ended it.
Vs Mayweather
A fight vs Sugar Ray Robinson would have been too much to ask of Floyd Mayweather Jr. There would have been a huge disparity in skill, power, size, heart, and speed if Mayweather would have ever fought a fighter of Robinson's caliber. Unfortunately, Mayweather, just like Pacquiao, would have been knocked out in brutal fashion and his career shortened and possibly ended in one night. There would have been nothing Mayweather could have done to compete with Sugar Ray Robinson. Shoulder rolling, elbows to neck, pot shotting, pull back counters, check hooks, and pretty much everything Mayweather would have attempted would have been nullified by Robinson. It would have never even got to a point where Mayweather could have attempted any of that because Robinson would have put him to sleep in less than 3 rounds. This fight would have been one of the biggest mismatches in the history of boxing. Mayweather's only chance of getting out of this fight without sustaining any serious injuries would have been for him to pull a "no mas" after one round with Robinson.
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