Boxing Junkie’s fantasy series “Who Wins?” revealed some interesting things about the fighters who were featured.
Boxing Junkie’s “Who Wins?” feature, in which we pitted each of our Top 15 pound-for-pound fighters against five potential opponents and had our three staffers predict winners, is completed.
What did it reveal? A number of things.
The top fighters on our pound-for-pound list are there for a reason.
Nos. 1-3 Vasiliy Lomachenko, Terence Crawford and Canelo Alvarez went a combined 43-1-1 in their fights (five fights with three predictions each). See below for the final standings.
The results depended heavily on the opposition.
Alvarez went 15-0 (6 KOs) in part because he’s a great fighter, as stated above, but also because the competition at super middleweight isn’t as deep as some other divisions.
Alvarez, who recently won a light heavyweight title was paired with 175-pounder Artur Beterbiev in one of the Russian’s five fights and all three Boxing Junkie staffers predicted Alvarez would lose.
One could argue that the records of Crawford (14-1, 3 KOs) and Errol Spence Jr. (13-2, 6 KOs) are as impressive as Alvarez’s given the inordinate number of quality welterweights compared to super middleweights.
Size matters.
The best example of this is Mikey Garcia, the four-division titleholder who now is a smallish welterweight. His ability stacks up against almost anyone’s but he is at a disadvantage against a full-sized, elite 147-pounder, as we saw when he was dominated by Spence. Garcia went 7-8 (0 KOs).
Age matters.
No one doubts the greatness of Manny Pacquiao, particularly after his victory over Keith Thurman. However, at 41, he can’t fight at the same pace he once did. Plus, he also is a small 147-pounder. Those are reasons the Boxing Junkie staffers gave the nod to Pacquiao’s opponents by a wide margin. Pacquiao went 3-12 (0 KOs), the worse record among the 15 fighters featured.
Gennadiy Golovkin, 37, suffered a similar fate. He’s a great fighter but also an aging one, which caught up with him in our feature. Triple-G went 9-6 (5 KOs).
Fury is clearly No. 1.
The heavyweight division isn’t deep but Fury’s opponents – Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, Oleksandr Usyk, Dillian Whyte and Andy Ruiz Jr. – have had success. And Fury emerged with a record of 14-1 (8 KOs), losing only a close decision against Usyk in the opinion of staffer Sean Nam.
Even special fighters lose.
Two good examples are Srisaket Sor Rungvisai and Josh Taylor, who had records of 8-7 (5 KOs) and 7-6-2 (2 KOs), respectively. That has less to do with their abilities than the fighters we had them face.
Sor Rungvisai, a junior bantamweight, had to contend with a gauntlet of superb opponents – Juan Francisco Estrada (in a third fight), Roman Gonzalez (also for the third time), Nayoa Inoue (a bantamweight), Kazuto Ioka and Kosei Tanaka. No one could emerge from those tests unscathed.
And Taylor, a junior welterweight, faced Jose Ramirez, Regis Prograis (in a rematch), Maurice Hooker, Terence Crawford (a welterweight) and Teofimo Lopez (a lightweight). Again, tough assignments.
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic. One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create …
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic.
One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create our own “Who Wins?” feature, in which we pit a single fighter against each of five potential opponents and indicate who we believe would win the fights.
Next up is our final subject, No. 15 Leo Santa Cruz.
In this installment of Who Wins?, our staffers’ give their takes on how Santa Cruz would do against Gervonta Davis, Gary Russell Jr., Miguel Berchelt, Joseph Diaz Jr. and Jamel Herring. We then tally Santa Cruz’s record in those fights and present our standings.
Santa Cruz isn’t the flashiest boxer (or person) but he has known almost nothing but success. He has fought at the elite level for a decade, has won titles in three divisions and avenged his only loss (to Carl Frampton) by consistently outworking his opponents.
We want to acknowledge that the choice of possible opponents is subjective. We’re looking for the best possible but also realistic foes for our featured boxers. One caveat: We won’t consider promotional and managerial rivalries that often stand in the way of the best matchups. And we’re operating under the assumption that none of our featured boxers will fight with ring rust as result of their forced coronavirus-related layoff.
So here goes: Santa Cruz vs. his five potential opponents.
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SANTA CRUZ (37-1-1, 19 KOs) VS. DAVIS (23-0, 22 KOs)
Gervonta Davis (left, against Jesus Cuellar) would be a handful for Leo Santa Cruz. AP Photo / Frank Franklin II
Rosenthal: Santa Cruz makes his opponents miserable because of his work rate; he doesn’t give them a chance to breathe. Davis, at his best, is more dynamic – quicker, more explosive – and definitely a bigger puncher. If he can handle Santa Cruz’s pressure – which isn’t a given – he’ll control the fight by outboxing Santa Cruz and landing the bigger shots. Davis by decision.
Frauenheim: Hard to know what to make of Santa Cruz. He was a whirlwind at 126 pounds. But recent performances are forgettable. Davis has dangerous power. Dangerous temper, too. The Santa Cruz of a few years ago frustrates him, beats him on the cards. Expect the old Santa Cruz, who wins a unanimous decision.
Nam: It comes down to whether Davis shows up in shape and prepared. If he fought like he did against the one-legged, washed-up Yuriorkis Gamboa, Santa Cruz could run away with a decision. Given how Davis’s energy tends to sag in the second half of fights, Santa Cruz could be in a prime position to snag some rounds on activity alone. The thinking here, though, is that Davis’s power will have the last word. Davis by stoppage in the late rounds.
***
SANTA CRUZ VS. RUSSELL (31-1, 18 KOs)
Gary Russell Jr. (right, against Tugstsogt Nyambayar) might have too much speed for Santa Cruz. Amanda Westcott / Showtime
Rosenthal: Santa Cruz has the style – pressure, pressure, pressure – to give a slick boxer problems. But Russell has the talent, the experience and toughness to handle almost anything. He’ll use his feet to frustrate Santa Cruz and land more than enough quick, accurate shots to win rounds. Russell by decision.
Frauenheim: Harder to know what to make of Russell than it is Santa Cruz. He’s fought only four times over the last four years. He’s known for hand speed. He’ll be 32 in June. If the speed is still there, he beats Santa Cruz, landing punches from various angles. Expect the speed to be there. Russell, unanimous decision.
Nam: If Santa Cruz can’t cut off the ring, he doesn’t have a chance of winning this fight. Superior hand speed notwithstanding, Russell is an effective boxer, who likes to continually slide to his left as he flits in with a flurry here and there, making this something of a nightmare styles matchup for the Mexican. If Russell doesn’t skimp out on the road work, he should find himself on the winning end of a decision.
***
SANTA CRUZ VS. BERCHELT (37-1, 33 KOs)
Miguel Berchelt (right) has too many advantages to lose to Santa Cruz Mikey Williams / Top Rank
Rosenthal: Berchelt is the genuine article. The Mexican can box, he can punch, he can take a punch (with one exception years ago) and he, like Santa Cruz, is a natural 130-pounder. Neither will have to look for the other, meaning both fighters will land a lot of hard shots. Punching power will be the difference. And Berchelt has an edge in that department. Berchelt by late KO.
Frauenheim: Santa Cruz’s toughest fight. Berchelt has a presence, an intangible poise. He won’t lose his cool, even a Santa Cruz at his whirlwind best. He’s also strong, physical enough to slow down Santa Cruz, especially in the later rounds. Berchelt, unanimous decision.
Nam: Like Santa Cruz, Berchelt likes to mix it up on the inside. Only he’s bigger and he hits harder. This is a fun fight until Berchelt’s natural advantages take over in the second half. Berchelt by unanimous decision.
***
SANTA CRUZ VS. DIAZ (31-1, 15 KOs)
Jo Jo Diaz has the skill set to compete with Santa Cruz but perhaps not the punching power. Michael Reaves / Getty Images
Rosenthal: Diaz, a former U.S. Olympian, is a polished, gutsy boxer who is coming off a break-through victory over Tevin Farmer to win a 130-pound title in January. He will give Santa Cruz problems early in the fight but Santa Cruz, also an excellent boxer, ultimately will outwork him and win a clear decision.
Frauenheim: Diaz has momentum, winning five straight since his lone loss to Russell in May 2018. An accomplished amateur, he has solid boxing skills. He also knows Santa Cruz. He sparred with him. What he doesn’t have is power, or at least enough to slow down Santa Cruz, who wins unanimous decision.
Nam: Both guys like to tussle on the inside, but Diaz hits harder and his southpaw angles will befuddle the somewhat unimaginative Santa Cruz. This is a high-volume affair that’ll be close on the cards. Diaz by decision.
***
SANTA CRUZ VS. HERRING (21-2, 10 KOs)
Is former Olympian Jamel Herring (right) to slick for Santa Cruz. Dylan Buell / Getty Images
Rosenthal: Herring, another U.S. Olympian, realized his potential by outboxing Masayuki Ito to win a 130-pound title last May. He doesn’t have much power but he’s a beautiful, effective boxer. The problem for him is that Santa Cruz will be in his face from beginning to end, giving him little chance to find his rhythm. Santa Cruz by clear decision.
Frauenheim: Herring is slick and as tough as his Semper Fi nickname. The combat veteran knows his way around the ring. But his power – 10 KOs in 21 fights – is suspect. He’ll need more than he has displayed against the often-tireless Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz, unanimous decision.
Nam: Herring is bigger (he used to campaign at 135), awkward, and mobile. Stylistically speaking, Santa Cruz has never fought anybody like Herring; the majority of his opponents have been artless, come-forward types. Herring controls the distance and pace for 12 rounds, working behind his southpaw jab while continually turning Santa Cruz, en route to a points decision.
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic. One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create …
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic.
One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create our own “Who Wins?” feature, in which we pit a single fighter against each of five potential opponents and indicate who we believe would win the fights.
In this installment of Who Wins?, our staffers’ give their takes on how Sor Rungvisai would do against Juan Francisco Estrada (in a third fight), Roman Gonzalez (also for the third time), Nayoa Inoue, Kazuto Ioka and Kosei Tanaka. We then tally Sor Rungvisai’s record in those fights and present our standings.
Sor Rungvisai, a huge puncher, was already an accomplished champion when he first outpointed and then stopped the great Roman Gonzalez in back-to-back fights in 2017, making him a major player among little fighters worldwide.
We want to acknowledge that the choice of possible opponents is subjective. We’re looking for the best possible but also realistic foes for our featured boxers. One caveat: We won’t consider promotional and managerial rivalries that often stand in the way of the best matchups. And we’re operating under the assumption that none of our featured boxers will fight with ring rust as result of their forced coronavirus-related layoff.
The plan is to work our way down our pound-for-pound list each day. That means our featured fighter tomorrow will be No. 15 Leo Santa Cruz.
So here goes: Sor Rungvisai vs. his five potential opponents.
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SOR RUNGVISAI (47-5-1, 41) VS. ESTRADA (40-3, 27 KOs)
Juan Francisco Estrada (left, against Victor Mendez) is 1-1 against Srisaket Sor Rungvisai. John McCoy/Getty Images)
Rosenthal: A third fight between these two warriors is a no-brainer. Estrada rallied in the first fight to make it close but came up short. Sor Rungvisai, who inexplicably fought mostly from an orthodox stance, did the same in a losing cause in the rematch. Part III? Estrada, 29, has the more recent victory and momentum while Sor Rungvisai, 33, might have leveled off. Estrada by a close, but clear decision.
Frauenheim: Estrada lost a majority decision to Sor Rungvisai, then beat him by unanimous decision14 months later, both at 115. Estrada learned enough in the first fight to make the right adjustments. In the rematch, he figures to have learned even more. Estrada, unanimous decision.
Nam: Although Sor Rungivsai committed a grave tactical error in their rematch – the decision to go orthodox instead of his natural southpaw stance for more than three quarters of the bout – he ended up giving Estrada a run for his money the last few rounds. The third fight is closer if Sor Rungvisai relies on his natural instincts. Estrada will come out much the same, firing on all cylinders. But the Thai fighter has one of the better chins in the game and eventually he’ll wear out Estrada. Sor Rungvisai by close decision.
***
SOR RUNGVISAI VS. GONZALEZ (49-2, 41 KOs)
Srisaket Sor Rungvisai (right) seems to have Roman Gonzalez’s number. Jeff Gross / Getty Images
Rosenthal: Gonzalez’s victory over Kal Yafai was impressive but let’s not get carried away. Yafai isn’t Sor Rungvisai. And Gonzalez isn’t quite the fighter he was. Sor Rungvisai knocked Gonzalez out cold the last time they met. Gonzalez will probably make adjustments and could be more competitive but it still won’t end well for him. Sor Rungvisai by late KO.
Frauenheim: All of the momentum is with Sor Rungvisai. He scored a majority decision over Gonzalez in March, 2017. He knocked him out six months later in Carson, California. Gonzalez was at his best at flyweight. The physical Sor Rungvisai is stronger at junior bantamweight. Sor Rungvisai, late-round stoppage.
Nam: If Gonzalez can steer clear of getting waylaid by Sor Rungvisai’s right hook, he has a decent chance of notching a decision. That doesn’t seem likely, though, given Sor Rungvisai’s superiority in size, power and perhaps most of all his chin. If Gonazlez can’t hurt Sor Rungvisai, he will be hardpressed to hear the final bell. Morever, Gonzalez’s pressure-fighting style does should create plenty of openings for Sor Rungvisai. Sor Rungvisai by late stoppage.
***
SOR RUNGVISAI VS. INOUE (19-0, 16 KOs)
Nonito Donaire (left) proved that Naoya Inoue is human. Kazuhiro Nogi / AFP via Getty Images
Rosenthal: Sor Rungvisai had one of the most impressive streaks in boxing in 2017 and 2018, stopping Roman Gonzalez twice and outpointing Juan Francisco Estrada in consecutive fights. He hasn’t done much since, beating two journeymen and then losing a decision to Estrada in their rematch. The ability and the power still lurk, though. If he could carry that power from 115 to 118, he’d have a chance against Inoue. In the end, though, Inoue’s szie and superior skill set wins the day. Inoue by clear decision.
Frauenheim: Other than his Fight of the Year battle with Nonito Donaire, Inoue’s toughest fight could be Sor Rungvisai. He’s strong. Physicality isn’t exactly a word, but Sor Rungvisai defines it. He could hurt Inoue, who has the skill to elude him. He’s athletic enough to move and smart enough to adjust, all enough for Inoue to win a split decision.
Nam: If Sor Rungvisai demonstrates that his cast iron chin can hold up at 118 pounds, he will give Inoue some trouble. He’ll push the pace and throw left hand haymakers as Inoue tries to maneuver around the ring and land his potshots. Without the skillset to match Inoue’s, Sor Rungvisai will end up taking a lot of punishment. Inoue by decision.
***
SOR RUNGVISAI VS. IOKA (25-2, 14 KOs)
Kazuto Ioka has the all-around skills and heart to give Sor Rungvisai trouble. Bherouz Mehri / AFP via Getty Images
Rosenthal: Ioka is a well-schooled, fleet boxer-puncher who can compete with anyone at his weight. Sor Rungvisai is no exception. Ioka will do well early, sticking, moving, perhaps building up a lead on the cards. But the stronger Sor Rungvisai will wear him down and ultimately pull away to win a close decision.
Frauenheim: Ioka has power along with foot and hand speed. He’s resilient. He’s 2-0 since losing a debatable split decision to Donnie Nietes. But resilience might not be enough against Sor Rungvisai’s overall strength. Sor Rungvisai, late-round stoppage.
Nam: Ioka has been able to carve up mid-level fighters by working behind his jab and mixing in hard body shots. He’s a solid technician. Alas, that won’t be enough against the Sor Rungvisai, who is is bound to find a home for his hard left and rights. Sor Rungivisai by late stoppage.
***
SOR RUNGVISAI VS. TANAKA (15-0, 9 KOs)
Japan’s Kosei Tanaka (left against Jonathan Gonzalez) is one of the most gifted young fighters in the world. Jiji Press / AFP via Getty Images
Rosenthal: Tanka, 24, has accomplished so much in a short time for a reason: He’s one of the most talented young fighters in the world. He has good fundamentals, a high boxing IQ and unusual dynamism. Sor Rungvisai has edges in experience and punching power but very often the more-gifted fighter emerges victorious. And that’s Tanaka, who wins by a close decision.
Frauenheim: Tanaka is an emerging star. He’s 24, nine years younger than Sor Rungvisai. He has nine KOs on his 15-0 resume. He faces a mandatory challenge for a 112-pound belt from Ioka. He has all of the momentum, enough leverage to keep a bout vs. Sor Rungvisai in Japan. Tanaka, unanimous decision.
Nam: Tanaka’s mobility and boxing ability is going to win him some of the early rounds, but the young Japanese titleholder propensity for trading will undo him in the end. Recall that Sho Kimura, a hardscrabble but unremarkable fighter, was able to land plenty of leather on Tanaka in their 2018 barnburner. Tanaka is going to be swallowing a lot of flush left hands. Sor Rungivsai by decision.
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic. One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create …
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic.
One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create our own “Who Wins?” feature, in which we pit a single fighter against each of five potential opponents and indicate who we believe would win the fights.
In this installment of Who Wins?, our staffers’ give their takes on how Pacquiao would do against Errol Spence Jr., Shawn Porter, Terence Crawford, Danny Garcia and Mikey Garcia. We then tally Pacquiao’s record in those fights and present our standings.
Pacquiao proved at 40 that he remained an elite fighter by outpointing Keith Thurman in July. And even after celebrating another birthday in December, more compelling challenges await the Filipino icon when the pandemic subsides.
We want to acknowledge that the choice of possible opponents is subjective. We’re looking for the best possible but also realistic foes for our featured boxers. One caveat: We won’t consider promotional and managerial rivalries that often stand in the way of the best matchups. And we’re operating under the assumption that none of our featured boxers will fight with ring rust as result of their forced coronavirus-related layoff.
The plan is to work our way down our pound-for-pound list each day. That means our featured fighter tomorrow will be No. 14 Srisaket Sor Rungvisai.
So here goes: Pacquiao vs. his five potential opponents.
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PACQUIAO (62-7-2, 39 KOs) VS. SPENCE (26-0, 21 KOs)
Errol Spence Jr. has too many advantages over Manny Pacquiao for the Filipino icon to win this fight AP Photo / Richard W. Rodriguez
Rosenthal: This is not a fight Pacquiao should take, assuming Spence is at 100 percent. It’s one thing to beat a rusty Keith Thurman who is coming back from injuries; it’s another to challenge a complete fighter like Spence. “The Truth” is simply too quick, too big, just too good for a 40-something version of Pacquiao, who can fight only in spurts. Spence will pick Pacquiao apart, break him down and stop him in the late rounds.
Frauenheim: We’re still waiting to see Spence post-accident. If he’s the same fighter, he blows away Pacquiao. He’s big enough to be a middleweight. Pacquiao should be a junior welterweight. Spence is also 11-years younger than the Filipino Senator. Spence, late round stoppage.
Nam: Pacquiao’s speed and aggression will win him the early rounds, but this is a 12-round fight. Pacquiao tends to fade and take rounds off in the second half of his most recent fights (see the Jeff Horn and Keith Thurman bouts). That’s when Spence will start to take over, clobbering Pacquiao with hard body shots. Youth and size will prevail. Spence by unanimous decision.
***
PACQUIAO VS. PORTER (30-3-1, 17 KOs)
Shawn Porter (left) gave Errol Spence hell for 12 rounds. Could Pacquiao handle his pressure? AP Photo / Ringo H.W. Chiu
Rosenthal: Terrible matchup for Pacquiao. This version of him — 41, small welterweight — has neither the energy nor the physical strength to cope with Porter’s relentless pressure over 12 rounds. Pacquiao, still skillful, will have his moments early in the fight but Porter will wear him down as the rounds go by. Porter by late KO.
Frauenheim: Porter is two inches taller and nine years younger. Those are advantages, especially for a fighter who knows how to maximize them. Porter does. But he also has a problem. He’s at his best on the inside. Pacquiao catches him when he moves in. Pacquaio beat Keith Thurman. Porter lost to him. Pacquiao, split decision.
Nam: At this stage in his career, the last thing Pacquiao wants is to go through the wringer that is Porter. Anyone remember Jeff Horn? The Aussie perhaps got lucky on the scorecards, but he bullied Pacquiao at times in their fight. Porter will bring the same physical intensity – from headbutts to half-nelsons – but at a higher level of talent and athleticism. Porter by bloody decision.
***
PACQUIAO VS. CRAWFORD (36-0, 27 KOs)
Terence Crawford (right, against Amir Khan) would not have problems beating Pacquiao. AP Photo / Frank Franklin II
Rosenthal: Fun matchup, as most of Pacquiao’s are. Pacman proved against Keith Thurman that he shouldn’t be underestimated, even in his 40s. That said, Crawford is a notch above Thurman, is a more natural 147-pounder than the smallish Pacquiao and presumably wouldn’t be coming off a prolonged layoff, as Thurman was when he faced Pacquiao. Crawford is too quick, too good, too young for this version of Pacquiao. Crawford by clear decision.
Frauenheim: There’s a reason Freddie Roach has suggested there are better fights for Pacquiao. This is one he can’t win. Crawford is in his prime. Pacquiao is past his. Pacquiao showed surprising quickness against Thurman. But Thurman was limited by a hand injury. A two-fisted attack from the switch-hitting Crawford would be too much. Crawford, late-round TKO.
Nam: As inspiring as Pacquiao’s recent run has been, throttling the likes of Adrien Broner and Keith Thurman, Crawford would mark an end to the senator’s joyride. Crawford’s counterpunching ability will disrupt Pacquiao’s usual in-and-out motion. Recall that Pacquiao has historically had trouble against particularly good counterpunchers. Crawford wins on points.
***
PACQUIAO VS. D. GARCIA (36-2, 21 KOs)
Danny Garcia (left) might have a troublesome style for Pacquiao. AP Photo / Frank Franklin II
Rosenthal: Pacquiao has had problems with particularly effective counterpunchers in the past. Think Juan Manuel Marquez. Garcia isn’t quite at Marquez’s level but he’s made his living as a top-tier fighter by responding to his opponents’ offensive moves, particularly with his left hook. This one will go down to the wire, with Garcia winning seven rounds to five.
Frauenheim: Garcia is three inches taller and about nine years younger. He’s a good counter-puncher. His left is lethal. But he doesn’t have as varied a skill set as Porter or Thurman. He lost to both. If the 41-year-old Pacquiao’s foot speed is still there, he’ll score early and often while also eluding Garcia’s counters. Pacquiao, unanimous decision.
Nam: This is in some sense a favorable style matchup for Garcia. Pacquiao will be the aggressor, which plays right into Garcia’s counter punches. But one could also see Garcia being overwhelmed by the variety and pace of Pacquiao’s offense. Garcia isn’t a defensive wizard by any means, after all. Pacquiao wins a close decision after a highly competitive 12 rounds.
***
PACQUIAO VS. M. GARCIA (40-1, 30 KOs)
Mikey Garcia (right) proved against Jessie Vargas that he could beat a good welterweight. Tom Pennington / Getty Images
Rosenthal: Good matchup. The Pacquiao of five, six years ago probably would’ve controlled this fight with his speed and activity. The 41-year-old version of Pacquiao would have his hands full. The Filipino icon, who now fights only in spurts, will have his moments but Garcia will have more of them. His tight technique, precising punching and measured pressure would earn him the victory by a clear decision.
Frauenheim: A fight that should have happened years ago. Yet, it’s still interesting. Both looked good in their last bouts – Garcia in a unanimous victory over Jessie Vargas and Pacquiao in a split decision over Thurman. Garcia regained confidence he can be a factor at 147 pounds. His youth prevails, allowing him to score late. Garcia, unanimous decision.
Nam: Garcia has a good shot here for two reasons. First, he’s a counterpuncher by nature and counterpunchers have typically done well against Pacquiao. Second, Pacquiao is a small welterweight. Also, Garcia is conceivably much closer to his prime than Pacquiao is at this stage. Garcia wins on points in a mild upset.
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic. One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create …
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic.
One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create our own “Who Wins?” feature, in which we pit a single fighter against each of five potential opponents and indicate who we believe would win the fights.
In this installment of Who Wins?, our staffers’ give their takes on how Taylor would do against Jose Ramirez, Regis Prograis (in a rematch), Maurice Hooker, Terence Crawford and Teofimo Lopez. We then tally Taylor’s record in those fights and present our standings.
Taylor had a huge 2019, defeating Ivan Baranchyk by a wide decision to win a 140-pound title and then unifying by narrowly outpointing Regis Prograis to become a major star.
We want to acknowledge that the choice of possible opponents is subjective. We’re looking for the best possible but also realistic foes for our featured boxers. One caveat: We won’t consider promotional and managerial rivalries that often stand in the way of the best matchups. And we’re operating under the assumption that none of our featured boxers will fight with ring rust as result of their forced coronavirus-related layoff.
The plan is to work our way down our pound-for-pound list each day. That means our featured fighter tomorrow will be No. 13 Manny Pacquiao.
So here goes: Taylor vs. his five potential opponents.
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TAYLOR (16-0, 12 KOs) VS. RAMIREZ (25-0, 17 KOs)
Jose Ramirez (punching Maurice Hooker here) is the most compelling potential opponent for Josh Taylor. Ronald Martinez / Getty Images
Rosenthal: Great matchup. Taylor and Ramirez are similar. They’re both were accomplished amateurs, they can box, they have some power and they’re big, strong 140 pounders who know how to use their muscle. Ramirez is probably more aggressive but Taylor might be a slightly better technician. The Englishman wins a close decision for that reason.
Frauenheim: Ramirez’s pound-for-pound credentials were evident last July in a stoppage of Maurice Hooker. He displayed newfound head movement and a hook to the body, all on the road in Texas. He’s getting better. Taylor will try to over-power him, bully him. But it won’t work against the poised Ramirez. Ramirez, unanimous decision.
Nam: Taylor edges this one. Ramirez’s high-octane offense will be difficult to quell. But Taylor’s superior inside work will help take some of the sting off of Ramirez’s attack. He’ll tame Ramirez. Taylor wins on points.
***
TAYLOR VS. PROGRAIS (24-1, 20 KOs)
Regis Prograis (right) pushed Taylor to the limit but came up short on the cards. Mark Robinson / Matchroom Boxing
Rosenthal: Taylor won a highly competitive first fight with Prograis – a majority decision – by fighting behind his excellent jab, keeping the pressure on his rival, beating him to the punch. Prograis will have to work a little harder in the rematch to have his hand raised. Will he? Too difficult to say. This one ends in a draw.
Frauenheim: Get ready for a trilogy. Taylor’s move to Top Rank means he has a new trainer in Ben Davison. They’ll need time to develop chemistry. During the coronavirus pandemic, there are no fights, no chance to work together. Prograis II figures to happen not long after boxing returns. That’s an opportunity for Prograis. He makes adjustments, wins split decision.
Nam: Flip a coin. Taylor was busier in the first fight, which partially helped shade the scores in his favor. He also outworked Prograis on the inside and landed some crushing right hooks. Expect the same in the rematch, with Prograis making a rally that comes too late. Taylor wins by a hair on the scorecards.
***
TAYLOR VS. HOOKER (27-1-3, 18 KOs)
Maurice Hooker (right) fought with spirit against Ramirez but couldn’t cope with Ramirez’s all-around game. AP Photo / Brandon Wade
Rosenthal: Hooker met his match in Ramirez, who overcame Hooker’s quickness and movement with his combination of ability and punishing aggression. Hooker could be in for a similar fate against Taylor, who will both outbox and outslug the American en route to a clear decision victory.
Frauenheim: Hooker has advantages. He’s 5-foot-11, two inches taller than Taylor. He uses his height effectively. He has an 80-inch reach, 10½ inches more than Taylor. But that won’t be enough to keep Taylor off him. Taylor, late-round stoppage.
Nam: This is Taylor’s easiest fight here. Taylor will work his way inside Hooker’s long, but lazy jab and proceed to batter the Dallas native’s rib cage. It’s a one-sided fight. Taylor gets his hand raised by the eighth round.
***
TAYLOR VS. CRAWFORD (36-0, 27 KOs)
Terence Crawford might be too strong — and too good — for Taylor. Sarah Stier / Getty Images
Rosenthal: Of course, this is a big challenge for Taylor. Crawford isn’t a big welterweight but he’s bigger than Taylor. And as good as Taylor is terms of skills, Crawford is better and more dynamic. Taylor is too talented to go quietly but he will eventually wear down and get stopped late in the fight.
Frauenheim: An intriguing fight a couple of years from now. Taylor has yet to make the jump from junior-welterweight to welter. Crawford has been fighting and winning at 147 pounds since 2018 — four fights, four victories, all by stoppage. Crawford’s punching precision with both hands punishes Taylor as he moves inside. Crawford, unanimous decision.
Nam: Given Taylor’s tendency to slightly fade late in fights, this one doesn’t bode for him. Crawford is one of the top finishers in the sport. Once blood starts trickling from Taylor’s eye, Crawford will pounce on him. Expect a painful ending for Taylor, whom Crawford stops before the final bell.
***
TAYLOR VS. LOPEZ (15-0, 12 KOs)
Teofimo Lopez (here standing over admiring his knock down of Richard Conmmey) would have to move up in weight to face Taylor. Mikey Williams / Top Rank
Rosenthal: Lopez is a beast at 135 pounds. He has an impressive ring IQ, he’s athletic and he can whack. Hence the excitement surrounding him. But how does he do against a top 140-pounder like Taylor? Probably very well. He’ll have some trouble with Taylor’s all-around ability and size but eventually he’ll get to him and dominate the second of the fight to win a clear decision.
Frauenheim: Lopez, who will turn 23 on July 30, is a lightweight poised to become a junior-welterweight. His confidence and explosive skill set give Taylor trouble. Then again, Prograis had confidence and explosive skill set, too. Taylor beat him. Two years from now, he scores a decision over Taylor. Today, they fight to a draw.
Nam: Lopez may be bigger than the average lightweight, but at junior welterweight he would fit right in with the rest of the division. Taylor is taller, rangier and punches hard enough to give Lopez a possibly rude awakening. On the other hand, Lopez, a power puncher with great reflexes, has a good shot of doing the same to Taylor. In the end, Taylor’s versatility and experience should give him a close decision.
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic. One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create …
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic.
One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create our own “Who Wins?” feature, in which we pit a single fighter against each of five potential opponents and indicate who we believe would win the fights.
In this installment of Who Wins?, our staffers’ give their takes on how Beterbiev would do against Dmitry Bivol, Jean Pascal, Gilberto Ramirez, Badou Jack and Canelo Alvarez. We then tally Beterbiev’s record in those fights and present our standings.
Beterbiev has built a reputation as a capable boxer with uncommon strength, as his 100% knockout percentage suggests. He unleashed his full destructive power in his most-recent fight, breaking down and then brutally stopping then-unnbeaten Oleksandr Gvozdyk in the 10th round in October.
We want to acknowledge that the choice of possible opponents is subjective. We’re looking for the best possible but also realistic foes for our featured boxers. One caveat: We won’t consider promotional and managerial rivalries that often stand in the way of the best matchups. And we’re operating under the assumption that none of our featured boxers will fight with ring rust as result of their forced coronavirus-related layoff.
The plan is to work our way down our pound-for-pound list each day. That means our featured fighter tomorrow will be No. 12 Josh Taylor.
So here goes: Beterbiev vs. his five potential opponents.
***
BETERBIEV (15-0, 15 KOs) VS. BIVOL (17-0, 11 KOs)
Dmitriy Bivol (left, against Lenin Castillo) has a series of quality victories the past few years. Ed Mulholland/Matchroom Boxing USA
Rosenthal: This could be Beterbiev’s most-difficult fight. Bivol has demonstrated his superior skill set against one quality opponent after another the past few years. He’s an excellent boxer, maybe good enough to expose whatever limitations Beterbiev might have. The question is whether he can weather the Beterbiev storm for 12 rounds. The guess here is he can’t. Beterbiev by late KO.
Frauenheim: Bivol is technically proficient. He knows his way around, moving across the ring on educated feet that take him in and out of harm’s way. But he lacks power, or at least enough of it to keep the heavy-handed Bertebiev off him. Beterbiev cuts off ring and wins by a late-round stoppage.
Nam: Dmitry Bivol has the discipline, conditioning and quickness to outpoint Beterbiev, which is what you need to do against a bruiser like Beterbiev. It won’t be an aesthetically pleasing fight, but Bivol’s effective in-and-out motion will see him win the majority of rounds. As long as he can wade through a few big punches, Bivol wins on points.
***
BETERBIEV VS. PASCAL (35-6-1, 20 KOs)
Jean Pascal resurrected his career as an elite fighter by beating Badou Jack. Amanda Westcott / Showtime
Rosenthal: Pascal deserves a lot of credit for beating Marcus Browne and Badou Jack in succession, which made him a major player again after many had written him off. That doesn’t mean the 37-year-old can compete with Beterbiev. He can’t. Pacal relies on his power to win fights and he simply doesn’t measure up to Beterbiev in that department. Beterbiev by sixth-round KO.
Frauenheim: Pascal fought his way back into the title mix with victories over Marcus Browne and Badou Jack. He’s athletic. But his record includes tough bouts against the best at 175 pounds, everybody from Sergey Kovalev to Bernard Hopkins. Wear and tear are evident, too much to withstand Beterbiev for 12 rounds. Beterbiev, late stoppage.
Nam: Pacal is riding an impressive two-fight win streak over top light heavyweight contenders Marcus Browne and Badou Jack, but against Beterbiev he will be fresh out of luck. The only chance is for Pascal to land his unorthodox overhand right. But if Beterbiev, whose chin has prompted some questions in the past, evades them, he will batter the veteran into submission before the sixth round.
***
BETERBIEV VS. RAMIREZ (40-0, 26 KOs)
Gilberto Ramirez (right, against Maxim Bursak) has some quality victories but hasn’t faced anyone like Artur Beterbiev. AP Photo / Mark J. Terrill
Rosenthal: Ramirez has a gaudy record, including a reign as a super middleweight titleholder. That’s impressive. However, the lanky Mexican — who has fought only once at 175 pounds — has neither neither the special skill set nor the punching power to cope with a beast like Beterbiev. Ramirez will have some success early but he’ll eventually wilt under the weight of Beterbiev’s punches and not reach the final bell.
Frauenheim: Ramirez, longtime super middleweight champ, has fought only once at light heavyweight. In April, he stopped Tommy Karpency, who came into the ring with seven losses. Ramirez hasn’t fought since. He looked comfortable in his debut. But his long upper-body is a big target for Beterbiev’s lethal right. Beterbiev, middle-round stoppage.
Nam: Ramirez is talented but his inactivity and inexperience at light heavyweight makes him a considerable underdog here. The southpaw is effective at both distance and range, but the latter will quicken his demise. Beterbiev will bully Ramirez en route to a late stoppage.
***
BETERBIEV VS. JACK (22-3-3, 13 KOs)
Badou Jack (right) fought Jean Pascal on even terms but came up short on the cards. Amanda Westcott / Showtime
Rosenthal: This could be Beterbiev’s toughest fight among the five here. Jack doesn’t have unusual punching power but he’s a clever boxer with a load of experience at the highest level. He might be good and resilient enough to give Beterbiev problems — for a while. Beterbiev will take firm control in the middle rounds, wear Jack down and win a clear decision.
Frauenheim: Jack is tough. He’s also scarred. He needed about 100 stitches for forehead gash suffered in loss to Browne. There was no rupture of the scar in a subsequent loss to Pascal. But Beterbiev’s right lands at higher velocity and with heavier impact than anything thrown by Pascal. Beterbiev wins a punishing, perhaps bloody decision.
Nam: Jack’s tendency to start slowly and waffle his way to split-decision losses and draws makes him especially vulnerable here. Beterbiev stops Jack before the final bell.
***
BETERBIEV VS. ALVAREZ (52-1-2, 36 KOs)
Canelo Alvarez (left) had trouble with Sergey Kovalev for much of their fight and Beterbiev would be a step up in opposition. Ethan Miller / Getty Images
Rosenthal: This fantasy fight would not end well for Alvarez. The Mexican superstar had enough trouble with a faded Kovalev before finally stopping him in the 11th round to win a light heavyweight title. Beterbiev is well-schooled, unusually strong 175-pounder in his prime. Alvarez was smart to move back down in weight. Beterbiev by eighth-round KO.
Frauenheim: A fight the public wants to see. For a while, it also sounded as if it were a fight that Canelo would do. But he quickly backtracked, relinquishing the light heavyweight belt he won by KO over Kovalev. Canelo sees in Beterbiev what everyone else has. Nobody at 175 pounds can beat him right now. Beterbiev, unanimous decision.
Nam: Don’t expect Alvarez to challenge Beterbiev anytime soon. The Russian is a bridge too far. Moreover, Alvarez is not a true light heavyweight despite his stoppage of Sergey Kovalev, who was, of course, washed up. Alvarez’s elite skills will only get him so far before Beterbiev mauls him to the canvas for a late stoppage.
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic. One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create …
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic.
One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create our own “Who Wins?” feature, in which we pit a single fighter against each of five potential opponents and indicate who we believe would win the fights.
In this installment of Who Wins?, our staffers’ give their takes on how Garcia would do against Manny Pacquiao, Terence Crawford, Shawn Porter, Danny Garcia and Keith Thurman. We then tally Garcia’s record in those fights and present our standings.
Garcia was a dominating lightweight and junior welterweight before moving up to welterweight to face Errol Spence Jr., who dominated him en route to a shutout decision in March of last year. The brother of trainer Robert Garcia bounced back by stopping contender Jessie Vargas in February, proving that he can defeat a good 147-pounder.
He reportedly is on the short list to face Pacquiao in the Filipino’s next fight.
We want to acknowledge that the choice of possible opponents is subjective. We’re looking for the best possible but also realistic foes for our featured boxers. One caveat: We won’t consider promotional and managerial rivalries that often stand in the way of the best matchups. And we’re operating under the assumption that none of our featured boxers will fight with ring rust as result of their forced coronavirus-related layoff.
The plan is to work our way down our pound-for-pound list each day. That means our featured fighter tomorrow will be No. 11 Artur Beterbiev.
So here goes: Garcia vs. his five potential opponents.
***
GARCIA (40-1, 30 KOs) VS. PACQUIAO (62-7-2, 39 KOs)
Manny Pacquiao (right) demonstrated against Keith Thurman that he still has it. AP Photo / John Locher
Rosenthal: Good matchup. The Pacquiao of five, six years ago probably would’ve controlled this fight with his speed and activity. The 41-year-old version of Pacquiao would have his hands full. The Filipino icon, who now fights only in spurts, would have his moments but Garcia would have more of them. His tight technique, precising punching and measured pressure would earn him the victory by a clear decision.
Frauenheim: A fight that should have happened years ago. Yet, it’s still interesting. Both looked good in their last bouts – Garcia in a unanimous victory over Jessie Vargas and Pacquiao in a split decision over Thurman. Garcia regained confidence he can be a factor at 147 pounds. His youth prevails, allowing him to score late. Garcia, unanimous decision.
Nam: Garcia has a good shot here for two reasons. First, he’s a counterpuncher by nature and counterpunchers have typically done well against Pacquiao. Second, Pacquiao is a small welterweight. Also, Garcia is conceivably much closer to his prime than Pacquiao is at this stage. Garcia wins on points in a mild upset.
***
GARCIA VS. CRAWFORD (36-0, 27 KOs)
Terence Crawford could be too strong, too good for Mikey Garcia. Mikey Williams / Top Rank
Rosenthal: Crawford isn’t a big welterweight but he’s stronger than Garcia, who is a natural 140-pounder. More important, as good as Garcia is skillwise, Crawford is better, more athletic and certainly more dynamic. Crawford would pick Garcia apart, break him down and score a technical knockout late in the fight.
Frauenheim: Garcia’s toughest fight. Garcia has a versatile skill set, one that he employs with great discipline. Crawford’s versatility is complemented by his quicksilver ability to switch between orthodox and southpaw. That figures to be a problem for Garcia in a fight that starts slowly and ends dramatically. Crawford, spit decision.
Nam: Crawford is all wrong for Garcia. They’ll try to outbox each other in the early going, with Garcia landing some nice right hands. But Crawford, one of the better improvisers in the ring, will start imposing himself in the second half of the fight. It’ll be violent. Garcia will get mauled. Crawford by late stoppage.
***
GARCIA VS. PORTER (30-3-1, 17 KOs)
Shawn Porter (right) gave the performance of his career in defeat against Errol Spence Jr.. Jayne Kamin-Oncea / Getty Images
Rosenthal: This isn’t a good matchup for Garcia, whose relative lack size will be his Achilles’ heel. Think about what Porter did against Spence, who went to hell and back to win a close decision in their fight. Garcia would have much more difficulty coping with the bruising Porter’s relentless aggression. Porter by wide decision.
Frauenheim: Porter is slightly bigger. He’s an inch taller and has an inch-and-a-half advantage in reach. Both advantages appear minimal, but Porter uses them effectively. He’s physical, strong on the inside, which was a factor versus Errol Spence, who beat him by split decision and dominated Garcia. Porter, split decision.
Nam: There are better ways to earn a living than going through the grinder that is Porter. Garcia will have success landing his counter right the way Kell Brook did against Porter many years ago, but he won’t be able to do it for 12 rounds. Eventually Porter’s kitchen sink aggression will wear out the much smaller Garcia. Porter wins late by stoppage.
***
GARCIA VS. D. GARCIA (36-2, 21 KOs)
Danny Garcia (left, against Ivan Redkach) is always competitive. Amanda Westcott / Showtime
Rosenthal: The battle of the Garcias would be compelling. Mikey probably is the better boxer but Danny is an excellent, experienced counterpuncher who belongs at welterweight, which will work in his favor. Mikey will attack and have success in the first half of the fight but Danny will take control in the second half and win a close decision.
Frauenheim: A tricky fight. Danny Garcia is a little taller and has a reach advantage over Mikey. So did Jessie Vargas. Danny Garcia isn’t strong enough to wear down Mikey. But there’s lethal speed in his left hand. Is that enough to beat the multi-skilled Mikey? Not over 12 rounds. Mikey Garcia, unanimous decision.
Nam: No one is going to be clamoring to see two natural counterpunchers, but for what it’s worth, both Garcias are decent punchers. In this case, Mikey is a bit more dynamic and is a better puncher at range. Danny is best when he’s in closer and he can unfurl his coveted left hook. Amid all the feinting, expect Mikey to find a home for his overhand right. Mikey by unanimous decision.
***
GARCIA VS. THURMAN (29-1, 22 KOs)
Thurman (right) said his loss to Pacquiao in July has motivated him. AP Photo / John Locher
Rosenthal: Thurman is a big, strong, talented welterweight, which might not bode well for Garcia. The problem for Thurman is that injuries and time off have taken a toll on him, as we saw in his fight with Pacquiao. Thurman at 100 percent probably beats Garcia but we might never see that version of him again. Garcia by close decision.
Frauenheim: A couple of years ago, Thurman wins this fight. He’s strong. His long arms possess some lethal leverage. But injuries are a sign that he’s not quite the same fighter. A lingering injury to his left hand limited him in a narrow loss to Pacquiao. A healthy Thurman has a chance. Garcia, unanimous decision.
Nam: Even with all of his injuries, Thurman is a natural welterweight whose size, length and punching power immediately dwarfs that of Garcia. Thurman can also be somewhat elusive, given the way he tends to flit around the ring. All of which spells bad news for Garcia, who needs to be able to get in close to do any damage. If Thurman is as disciplined as Spence in not allowing Garcia to get comfortable, it’ll be his fight to lose. Thurman on points.
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic. One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create …
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic.
One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create our own “Who Wins?” feature, in which we pit a single fighter against each of five potential opponents and indicate who we believe would win the fights.
In this installment of Who Wins?, our staffers’ give their takes on how Estrada would do against Roman Gonzalez, Srisaket Sor Rungvisai, Naoya Inoue, Kazuto Ioka and Kosei Tanaka. We then tally Estrada’s record in those fights and present our standings.
Estrada, a two-division champions, has won four consecutive fights since he lost a majority decision to Sor Rungvisai in 2018. That includes a unanimous-decision victory over Sor Rungvisai in a rematch to win a junior bantamweight title.
We want to acknowledge that the choice of possible opponents is subjective. We’re looking for the best possible but also realistic foes for our featured boxers. One caveat: We won’t consider promotional and managerial rivalries that often stand in the way of the best matchups. And we’re operating under the assumption that none of our featured boxers will fight with ring rust as result of their forced coronavirus-related layoff.
The plan is to work our way down our pound-for-pound list each day. That means our featured fighter tomorrow will be No. 10 Mikey Garcia.
So here goes: Estrada vs. his five potential opponents.
***
ESTRADA (40-3, 27 KOs) VS. GONZALEZ (49-2, 41 KOs)
Roman Gonzalez (right) resurrected his career as an elite fighter with a victory over Kal Yafai. Amanda Westcott / DAZN
Rosenthal: Gonzalez resurrected his career as an elite fighter by stopping Kal Yafai on Feb. 29, demonstrating to those who had written him off that he has some fight left in him. The problem for Gonzalez is Estrada is much better than Yafai. The Mexican is a superb, resilient boxer who gave Gonzalez hell in their 2012 meeting. This time, the aging Gonzalez will be taken to hell. Estrada by late knockout.
Frauenheim: A rematch has long been on the horizon. Gonzalez won the first one, wining a unanimous decision nearly eight years ago at 108 pounds. A move up the scale to junior bantamweight and possibly bantamweight favors Estrada. Gonzalez was at his best at 112. Estrada, unanimous decision.
Nam: There’s some wind in Gonzalez’s sails after he dominated Kal Yafai last month. Still, the fact is Gonzalez is no longer in his prime and Yafai was something of a fraud, a paper titleholder who fought no one of note during his title reign. Gonzalez won’t be able to pick apart Estrada in the same way. Consider that Estrada gave Gonzalez a pretty spirited fight in 2012. Estrada lost, but he only improved since then. You have to give it to the fresher fighter. Estrada on points.
***
ESTRADA VS. SOR RUNGVISAI (47-5-1, 41 KOs)
Srisaket Sor Rungvisai (right) beat Gonzalez in back to back fights in 2017. AP Photo / Frank Franklin II
Rosenthal: A third fight between these two warriors is a no-brainer. Estrada rallied in the first fight to make it close but came up short. Sor Rungvisai, who inexplicably fought mostly from an orthodox stance, did the same in a losing cause in the rematch. Part III? Estrada, 29, has the more-recent victory and momentum while Sor Rungvisai, 33, might have leveled off. Estrada by a close, but clear decision.
Frauenheim: Estrada lost a majority decision to Rungvisai, then beat him by unanimous decision14 months later, both at 115. Estrada learned enough in the first fight to make the right adjustments. In the rematch, he figures to have learned even more. Estrada, unanimous decision.
Nam: Although Sor Rungivsai committed a grave tactical error in their rematch – the decision to go orthodox instead of his natural southpaw stance for more than three quarters of the bout – he ended up giving Estrada a run for his money the last few rounds. The third fight is closer if Sor Rungvisai relies on his natural instincts. Estrada will come out much the same, firing on all cylinders. But the Thai fighter has one of the better chins in the game and eventually he’ll wear out Estrada. Sor Rungvisai by close decision.
***
ESTRADA VS. INOUE (19-0, 16 KOs)
Naoya Inoue made a strong statement by winning the WBSS bantamweight tournament. Toru Hanai / Getty Images
Rosenthal: Estrada is a complete fighter, meaning he’s a handful for anyone. He’ll outbox you, he’ll hurt you and he’ll almost certainly beat you. He’s a 115-pounder, though. He has fought above that weight but not against an elite opponent like Inoue. The guess here is that he’d be at too much of a physical disadvantage against Inoue, who would have trouble in the first half of the fight but slowly break Estrada down and win a clear decision.
Frauenheim: Estrada is a classic boxer-puncher, solid in every way. But he was vulnerable to a busy style, which was what Gonzalez used to beat him by decision. Inoue varies the angles and the rate of his combinations, all done to set up his signature punch — a left hook to the body. Inoue, unanimous decision.
Nam: The most skilled fighter here. He also has an underrated chin, as evidenced in his fights against a prime Roman Gonzalez and Srisaket Sor Rungvisai (twice). Not sure it holds up here against Inoue at 118. It’s a competitive bout for most of the fight, but Inoue’s power will take over late, eventually earning him a stoppage.
***
ESTRADA VS. IOKA (25-2, 14 KOs)
Kazuto Ioka has won two in a row since losing a split decision to Donnie Nietes in 2018. Toru Hanai/Getty Images)
Rosenthal: Ioka is an excellent all-around fighter and, at 31, has plenty of experience at the elite level. That includes his recent setback against Donnie Nietes, which most observers seem to believe he did enough to win. However, he hasn’t seen someone quite like Estrada, who can match Ioka’s boxing skills and has more power. Estrada by a clear decision.
Frauenheim: Ioka has some power along with foot and hand speed. His also might possess resiliency he’ll need to beat Estrada. He’s 2-0 since losing a debatable split-decision to Donnie Nietes. It’s a close fight, perhaps determined by location, location, location. In Mexico, Estrada wins. In Japan, Ioka wins. At a neutral site, it’s a draw.
Nam: It’s hard to know exactly where exactly Ioka, 31, is in his career. Promotional issues have contributed to some inactivity over the past few years. Moreover, the skilled boxer-puncher has never proven himself against truly elite opposition. That said, he did deserve to win against Donnie Nietes in 2018. Estrada is a bit too talented, too dynamic. Expect Ioka to start fast but for Estrada to catch up before beating the brakes of off Ioka to win a unanimous decision.
***
ESTRADA VS. TANAKA (15-0, 9 KOs)
Kosei Tanaka has stopped nine of his 15 opponents. Behrouz Mehri / AFP via Getty Images
Rosenthal: Tanaka, only 24, is a gifted, dynamic young fighter on the rise. He could be a major player for another decade. That said, this is Estrada’s time. His skill set and experience will be too much for Tanaka at this stage of the game. It will be close for a few rounds and then Estrada will pull away. Estrada by decision.
Frauenheim: Tanaka looks to be an emerging star. He’s 24. He has nine KOs on his 15-0 resume. He won a world title in only his fifth pro bout. He also faces a mandatory challenge for a 112-pound belt from Ioka. He has all of the momentum, enough leverage to keep a bout vs. Estrada in Japan. Tanaka, unanimous decision.
Nam: A potential barnburner. Tanaka, a three-division titleholder at only 24 years of age, has no qualms about mixing it up on the inside. See his terrific tete-a-tete against Sho Kimura in 2018. Not sure how much firepower he has to truly gain Estrada’s respect on the inside. His experience, moreover, is also a concern. Estrada wins a clear decision.
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic. One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create …
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic.
One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create our own “Who Wins?” feature, in which we pit a single fighter against each of five potential opponents and indicate who we believe would win the fights.
In this installment of Who Wins?, our staffers’ give their takes on how Fury would do against Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder a third time, Oleksandr Usyk, Dillian Whyte and Andy Ruiz Jr. We then tally Fury’s record in those fights and present our standings.
Fury is coming off his sensational seventh-round stoppage of Wilder in their rematch Feb. 22. He has not faced any of the other four opponents here.
We want to acknowledge that the choice of possible opponents is subjective. We’re looking for the best possible but also realistic foes for our featured boxers. One caveat: We won’t consider promotional and managerial rivalries that often stand in the way of the best matchups. And we’re operating under the assumption that none of our featured boxers will fight with ring rust as result of their forced coronavirus-related layoff.
The plan is to work our way down our pound-for-pound list each day. That means our featured fighter tomorrow will be No. 9 Juan Francisco Estrada.
So here goes: Fury vs. his five potential opponents.
***
FURY (30-0-1, 21 KOs) VS. JOSHUA (23-1, 21 KOs)
Anthony Joshua had reason to be pleased with himself after embarrassing Andy Ruiz Jr. in their rematch. Mark Robinson / Matchroom Boxing
Rosenthal: Joshua reminded us that he can box in his careful victory over Andy Ruiz Jr. in their rematch but he’s not going to outbox Fury. His only chance is to stop Fury or control the fight by making him uncomfortable with relentless aggression to eke out a decision. That’s hard to imagine after what we saw in the rematch with Ruiz. Fury, better and mentally tougher, will outbox, wear down and then stop Joshua in the late rounds.
Frauenheim: Who is Joshua? Is he the guy Andy Ruiz Jr. upset? Or the guy who beat Ruiz in a rematch? Hard to know. In the rematch he used his jab to great effect. He was careful, and he won. But Fury is good at taking opponents out of their comfort zone. He’ll rattle Joshua early with a punch or distraction. Fury, unanimous decision.
Nam: Joshua needs to recover his offense-first mentality if he stands a chance of beating Fury. He certainly won’t outbox him running around the ring and throwing one-twos. Joshua needs to come forward and set his feet and try to take Fury out. Unfortunately, that version of Joshua may be long gone. Fury hurts Joshua late en route to a clear points win.
***
FURY VS. WILDER (42-1-1, 41 KOs)
Deontay Wilder was overwhelmed by Tyson Fury in their rematch What can he do differently to win their third fight? Al Bello / Getty Images
Rosenthal: Fury now knows not only how to beat Wilder but how to dominate him, as he demonstrated in their rematch. Attack him, keep him on his back foot, don’t give him room to get anything done. And Wilder doesn’t (or at least didn’t) have the ring IQ to make adjustments. He and his team will come up with some sort of plan for the third fight but it won’t be enough. Fury by late KO.
Frauenheim: It’s not clear what Wilder can do without his right. Fury took away the leverage. There was no adjustment from Wilder. Wilder might adjust his wardrobe, ditching the 40-pound comic-book costume. But he’ll need to make adjustments within the ropes to win. Without knowing how to adjust, Fury wins the way he won the last one. Fury, mid-round TKO.
Nam: You can’t teach an old dog new tricks. Wilder is what he is: a boxing illiterate with game-changing power. Perhaps the one thing in Wilder’s favor during the layoff is that he’ll be more cognizant of Fury’s aggression in the rematch. But that might also be his undoing. There’s no easy answer for Wilder. Barring a colossal mental meltdown from Fury in the forthcoming months, Wilder is looking at a second straight loss. Fury on points.
***
FURY VS. USYK (17-0, 13 KOs)
Oleksandr Usyk (right, against Chazz Witherspoon) is a good boxer but would be dwarfed by Fury. Ed Mulholland / Matchroom Boxing USA
Rosenthal: This is the worst style matchup for Usyk. The 6-foot-3 Ukrainian’s advantage over most heavyweights is his unusual skill set, quickness and relative athleticism. Fury is a towering 6-9, would have about a 50-pound weight advantage and can box and move about as well as Usyk. How could the smaller man win? He couldn’t. Fury would pick Usyk apart, break him down and likely stop him in the second half of the fight.
Frauenheim: Fury has a six-inch advantage in height. Usyk will have to look up at an angle severe enough to suffer a strained neck. He’ll be lucky if that’s all he suffers. Ever since his jump to heavyweight, there are questions about whether Usyk is big enough. Against some, maybe. Against Fury, no way. Fury, mid-round stoppage.
Nam: This is Usyk’s toughest fight in a tactical sense. Fury’s also taller and bigger, meaning Usyk will have to work extra hard just to get close enough to do some damage. Many of the things Usyk excels at – circling to his right, jabbing – may be rendered moot because of Fury’s herky-jerky mobility. But that’s assuming that Fury decides to play cute in the ring. Should Fury employ a more aggressive approach a la Wilder, he’ll find Usyk hard to find. Usyk by close decision.
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FURY VS. WHYTE (27-1, 18 KOs)
Dillian Whyte has the bulk but not the skills to beat Fury. Dave Thompson / Matchroom Boxing
Rosenthal: Whyte has the bulk to stand up to Fury and an abundance of bravado but that won’t be nearly enough when they step into the ring. Fury will be able to do as he pleases, keep Whyte at a distance with is long jab, push him onto his back foot with measured aggression as he did against in the Wilder rematch and generally dominate the fight. Fury by KO around Round 8.
Frauenheim: Fury’s unique mobility will frustrate White. Whyte has some power, but he’ll never find Fury, whose agile footwork will leave Whyte lunging and missing throughout 12 rounds. Fury, unanimous decision.
Nam: The weakest challenger on this list for Fury. Whyte’s at his best when he’s facing fellow plodders. Fury’s dexterity and nimble footwork is going to cause all kinds of problems for him. Whyte also tends to fade late in a fight. Fury stops him late.
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FURY VS. RUIZ (33-2, 22 KOs)
Andy Ruiz (left) ate a lot of food before his rematch with Joshua and a lot of punches in the fight. Richard Heathcote / Getty Images
Rosenthal: Ruiz at his best is a good, quick-handed boxer with some power, as we saw in his upset of Anthony Joshua and in a close loss to Joseph Parker. At his worst, as we saw in the Joshua rematch, he’s an ineffective blob. Fury is simply too long and too good for either version of Ruiz. It’s difficult to imagine the Mexican-American finding ways to land with any consistency. Fury by wide decision.
Frauenheim: Ruiz is way too small. He’s seven inches shorter than Fury, who is tall enough to be an NBA power forward. Ruiz’s challenge is complicated by Fury’s foot and hand speed. Ruiz has no choice but to walk inside, where he’ll get punished. Fury, mid-round TKO.
Nam: Ruiz has fast hands, but he’ll find it hard for them to reach long-limbed Fury. Fury will outwork Ruiz with the jab and duck and hold whenever Ruiz tries to get close. It’s a stick-and-move game plan for Fury. It won’t look pretty, but he’ll win a clear decision.
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic. One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create …
Boxing Junkie staffers are trying to have some fun while the sport is on hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic.
One of the questions fans love to ask even amid a busy schedule is, “Who would win if …?” With that in mind, we decided to create our own “Who Wins?” feature, in which we pit a single fighter against each of five potential opponents and indicate who we believe would win the fights.
In this installment of Who Wins?, our staffers’ give their takes on how Spence would do against Terence Crawford, Manny Pacquiao, Keith Thurman, Yordenis Ugas and Danny Garcia. We then tally Spence’s record in those fights and present our standings.
For the record, we don’t know whether Spence will be the same after his horrific car accident in October but he says he’s fine and has been training.
We want to acknowledge that the choice of possible opponents is subjective. We’re looking for the best possible but also realistic foes for our featured boxers. One caveat: We won’t consider promotional and managerial rivalries that often stand in the way of the best matchups. And we’re operating under the assumption that none of our featured boxers will fight with ring rust as result of their forced coronavirus-related layoff.
The plan is to work our way down our pound-for-pound list each day. That means our featured fighter tomorrow will be No. 8 Tyson Fury.
So here goes: Spence vs. his five potential opponents.
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SPENCE (26-0, 21 KOs) VS. CRAWFORD (36-0, 27 KOs)
Terence Crawford vs. Errol Spence Jr. is the ultimate welterweight matchup. Sarah Stier / USA Today Sports
Rosenthal: Crawford is a better all-around fighter than Spence, quicker, more athletic, more dynamic, more power pound-for-pound. The problem for him is that Spence is almost as good as he is (assuming he has fully recovered from his crash) and the naturally bigger, stronger man, which would determine the winner. They would engage in a competitive, give-and-take fight until Crawford wears down and Spence pulls away. Spence by a close decision.
Frauenheim: It’s the fight everyone wants to see. But it’s getting perilously close to a past-due date. Crawford is 32. Spence hasn’t fought since an auto accident. Is he the same? If he is, it’s a classic. Spence has size, power. Crawford has precision in both hands. His instincts are deadly. Crawford, split decision.
Nam: Much of this depends on whether Spence is the same fighter he was before his hellacious car crash last year. If not, it’s hard to see Spence as the favorite. Crawford has yet to face a top-tier welterweight but the way in which he has dispatched his past several opponents suggests he is a difficult proposition for any elite 147-pounder. His versatility – ability to switch hit, fight off the back point, counter, come forward, finish, et al. – is precisely why Spence, despite his superior size and power at the weight, can’t afford to lose a step. Crawford by unanimous decision.
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SPENCE VS. PACQUIAO (62-7-2, 39 KOs)
Manny Pacquiao (right) proved against Keith Thurman that he can still fight post-40. AP Photo / John Locher
Rosenthal: This is not a fight Pacquiao should take, assuming Spence is at 100 percent. It’s one thing to beat a rusty Keith Thurman who is coming back from injuries; it’s another to challenge a fighter like Spence. “The Truth” is simply too quick, too big, just too good for a 40-something version of Pacquiao, who can fight only in spurts. Spence will pick Pacquiao apart, break him down and stop him in the late rounds.
Frauenheim: We’re still waiting to see Spence post-accident. If he’s the same fighter, he blows away Pacquiao. He’s big enough to be a middleweight. Pacquiao should be a junior welterweight. Spence is also 11-years younger than the Filipino Senator. Spence, late round stoppage.
Nam: Pacquiao’s speed and aggression will win him the early rounds, but this is a 12-round fight. Pacquiao tends to fade and take rounds off in the second half of his most recent fights (see the Jeff Horn and Keith Thurman bouts). That’s when Spence will start to take over, clobbering Pacquiao with hard body shots. Youth and size will prevail. Spence by unanimous decision.
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SPENCE VS. THURMAN (29-1, 22 KOs)
Thurman (left) suffered his first loss at the hands of Pacquiao. AP Photo / John Locher
Rosenthal: The time off could do both fighters good. Again, Spence is coming back from the injuries he suffered in his crash. Thurman, it seems, is still healing from multiple injuries. This isn’t a bad fight if they’re at their best. Spence has the tighter technique and is a more-precise puncher, which should be the difference in the fight. Thurman will be game but come up short on the cards.
Frauenheim: An interesting fight a couple of years ago. But Thurman has begun to show some wear and tear. He’s smart enough adjust. But he still lost to a smaller Pacquiao. The bigger Spence wears him out, then hurts him. Spence, late-round TKO.
Nam: Years ago this would have been a 50-50 proposition. Not the case anymore. Thurman will gallivant around the ring trying to potshot his way to a decision. Spence, on the other hand, will put the pressure on, and Thurman won’t like that. If Josesito Lopez was able to rock Thurman just by coming forward, you can bet Spence will have far more success with the same strategy. Spence by stoppage.
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SPENCE VS. UGAS (25-4, 12)
Yordenis Ugas (left, against Omar Figueroa Jr.) has the skill set to give any welterweight problems. AP Photo / John Locher
Rosenthal: Ugas, weaned in the Cuban amateur system, has the skill set to give any welterweight problems. He demonstrated that in a strong performance against Shawn Porter last year. And he’s hungry, as he has never won a title. It will take time for Spence to figure out Ugas but eventually he’ll take control with precise, hard punches to the body and head. Spence by clear decision.
Frauenheim: Ugas is little bit different than his fellow Cuban fighters. He prefers to plant his feet and throw punches. But he might need some of that slick Cuban footwork and elusiveness if he hopes to have a chance against Spence. Spence catches him, knocks him out mid-round.
Nam: Body punching galore. Both guys love digging to the body, but Spence is more precise, punches harder and is a bit more dynamic. This is a closer fight than most might expect. Spence gets the job done on points.
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SPENCE VS. GARCIA (36-2, 21 KOs)
Danny Garcia (left) dominated Ivan Redkach in his most-recent fight. AP Photo / Frank Franklin II
Rosenthal: Garcia is the most underrated of this bunch. He has the ability, experience and right style to win this fight. Spence will come to Garcia, which is what a counterpuncher wants. And Garcia has the punching accuracy and power to make Spence pay. That said, Spence, the slicker boxer and harder puncher will adjust to Garcia’s tactics and pull away in the second half of the fight. Spence by close decision.
Frauenheim: It’s easy to underestimate Garcia. He’s good, but wasn’t quite good enough to beat Thurman or Shawn Porter, who lost a split decision to Spence in September. Garcia’s left-hand counter is dangerous. By now, however, Spence knows that. Again, Garcia will be good, but not quite good enough. Spence, unanimous decision.
Nam: In one sense, Spence’s come-forward style is perfect for Garcia, who is at his best when counterpunching. But Spence isn’t just a mere bruiser. He’ll pick his spots early on before he’s able to corner Garcia and unload hard combinations to the body. Garcia will land that left hook counter multiple times, but at welterweight, he simply does not have the power to imperil the elite fighters. Spence will swallow them whole as he continues to break Garcia down and eventually stop him.
