It's a really good match-up. Tough one to call. Reid didn't have as much physicality on Eastman as people might think. Although i think if it were at super middle Reid would be favourite for me. I'll go Reid decision in a close fight.
Howard was pretty terrible but he had a good chin and a good dig. He could box a little but I think his work became exposed on the highest level. With his chin, power and even physically strength with the right dedication and training he could have become real good. Did he have to lose to Joppy, he could have made a Hopkins fight much closer, could have beat Abraham too... Reid had the chin, had the power but he had a bit of boxing skills too. Reid wins the decision because technically Howard was pretty bad.
I'd have to go with Reid by clear decision. Eastman just couldn't hack it at the top level and was content to be a ''gallant loser'' when in truth he just bottled it against Joppy (who Reid would have shredded) and Hopkins to a lesser degree.
As has been said,imo Eastman had way more talent than was utilised.I used to get annoyed watching him because i think after a round or two not going his way he seemed to make up his mind that it wasnt his fight,instead of digging in or changing tactics.I dont think his head was right for a boxer and if he had done i think he would have been that much better. To answer the question,Reid on points,but an interesting fight.
Howard was a **** about artist pure and simple he could beat top class guys when he wanted to. He was just a enigma..
Because pro boxing isn't all about how good you are technically. The truth is Eastman fought average fighters, in an average era but happened to be strong, durable and a bit powerful. At the highest level he was facing guys who could trump him technically and/or match him for strength, durability, power and even talent.
My trainer hated Howard, said he smashed him up in a tear up. I dunno if true cos my trainer was a jokeman sorry to say. I've met Gilbert and he's a humble guy and i'm glad he's well after his injury.
At a fun run in Battersea Park for Frank Maloney, Also saw him at a show. Trainers name was Louis Wilson, He had 2 brothers Mark and Peter. All fighters with Peter supposedly being best.
Ah ok. I've seen Howard and Gilbert down Battersea ABC. Nice blokes. Howard brought his belts down and took photos but Gilbert would spar.
Yeah never met Howard, Gilbert was classy, never had that 'i'm a fighter, i'm hard' attitude you sometimes get with some fighters he was humble and quiet. This was also before his injury as well, I always liked Howard suppose cos he's a Battersea boy so he's local. I actually disliked him and Richard Williams fighting. Ending wasn't nice either, To guys from SW who i grew up watching duking it out for British and SW superiority.