Galindez was a tested and true champion. He would have eked out a close decision over Conteh h2h IMO.
With his consistancy and durablility as a champion and a fighter I think it's fair. Galindez was a lot stronger than Conteh and I think the significance of fighting the best would bring out the best in him.
I'd have him in front after John broke his hand against Taylor in a non-title fight. Conteh defended his belt early 75 against Bennett, then didn't again until the end of 76.with only the hand break non-title fight in between. During that time Galindez had fought Fourie twice, Ahumada, Kates, Burnett and Billy Douglas among others. Conteh came back strongly with the wins over Lopez and Hutchins while galindez did little at the end of 76\start of 77, so you could argue it was back as debatable then, but after that Conteh was out for another year and eventually stripped of his title. Before he attempted to regain it Galindez had already beat Kates again, Lopez twice and Muhammed.He was clearly the top man after early 77 until his loss to Rossman.
No they were considered on the same level, until Conteh became inactive. That said, if you're rating them in retrospect and always preferred Galindez then sure you could rate him as number 1 from the moment he picked up the title, but it would better reflect reality to wait a year or so.
I wouldn't say Galindez was stronger than Conteh at all. Conteh was a heavyweight. Luf, IMO Conteh was far better until he got sloppy and inactive. Then again Galindez took two attempts to beat Rossman.
BTW when Conteh beat Ahumada the Argie had recently been robbed against Foster. Conteh beat Ahumada at the best possible time. Galindez beat him before Foster and after Conteh. Conteh essentially won the 'lineal' title when he beat Ahumada IMO.
That's how I saw it tbh but like some have said he became inactive whilst galindez was on fire. I dont think conteh has a great body of work in the division but he was considered an amazing talent when he was around.
I'd let her walk like an Egyptian all over me, if you know what I mean. And I hope you do cause I have no clue.
Not a 'great body of work' as champ' no, but how far was he behind Galindez really in terms of overall resume? Not too much IMO.