How highly regarded is Tommy Bell?

[dpw417]

The man Robinson beat for the vacant welterweight title? Evewrything I've read states that he gave SRR quite a fight....He also fought LaMotta and Gavilan among others.

[john garfield]

Originally Posted by dpw417

The man Robinson beat for the vacant welterweight title? Evewrything I've read states that he gave SRR quite a fight....He also fought LaMotta and Gavilan among others.

I was ringside at the old Garden with my dad for the Robinson fight.

Bell was no slouch -- a few inches shorter than SRR, but a mirror image style-wise: a stand-up boxer/puncher.

He fought with hands high and a tighter stance. Robinson's guard was lower and he was turned slightly to the side, in a concession to defense, but his stance was wider and gave him more leverage.

They dueled on pretty even terms for 15 rounds, but to me, Robinson's punches had more authority and his combinations were like the repeated crack of a bullwhip.

Some thought Robinson lost; it was that close. Bell dropped Robby in the second round with left hooks. Tommy hit the canvas in the 11th, and was almost stopped in the 12th.

Bell was a helluva fighter. But for those who race to BoxRec for an opinion, all the L's won't convince them, but he was never the same after Robinson.

[dpw417]

Originally Posted by john garfield

I was ringside at the old Garden with my dad for the Robinson fight.

Bell was no slouch -- a few inches shorter than SRR, but a mirror image style-wise: a stand-up boxer/puncher.

He fought with hands high and a tighter stance. Robinson's guard was lower and he was turned slightly to the side, in a concession to defense, but his stance was wider and gave him more leverage.

They dueled on pretty even terms for 15 rounds, but to me, Robinson's punches had more authority and his combinations were like the repeated crack of a bullwhip.

Some thought Robinson lost; it was that close. Bell dropped Robby in the second round with left hooks. Tommy hit the canvas in the 11th, and was almost stopped in the 12th.

Bell was a helluva fighter. But for those who race to BoxRec for an opinion, all the L's won't convince them, but he was never the same after Robinson.

John Garfield,
I always enjoy your recollections of SRR. If you don't mind me asking...What makes Robinson, one of your favorites?
For me...It's an acknowledgement and appreciation of an artist with boxing gloves on...The work and talent involved to perform the way he did...for such a long time. That is what is incredible to me...his longevity. He was a sportsman who perfected his craft and gave his all to the profession.
Any more stories would be appreciated!