Why has there been such a dearth of technically capable fighters in the last decade?

There are many ways to the same end. What some call "talented technical boxing" doesn't always defeat effective, motivated fighters who may have a different means to the same end. Effectiveness wins the day, not aesthetic models.

 

It's not some much that there is a unified technical excellence applicable to all fighters. A better term might be "technical appropriateness". You don't want Wlad fighting like Mayweather, nor vice versa, but their respective styles and their consistent adherence to them have proven to be very effective.

Boxing is still fighting, and first and foremost is the ability to fight. For instance, we have seen many fighters in the past and present get by on chin and power and modify their style to fit these attributes. Boxing is not about an amalgamation of skills and attributes. It's about exploiting one fighter's strengths against another's weaknesses.

 

Less top trainers and more of an emphasis on strength and being strong/big at the weight.

 

Agree with the less top trainers mention , but I'd also throw in the need for instant entertainment from the tv companies to appease the casual fan who wants action and ko's in quick time . This in reality does not encourage or reward a boxer in becoming a craftsman

 

The love of the of sport is not there. It almost seems like people have forgotten skills. Back in the day all of the old fighters shoulder-rolled, slipped, countered, jabbed, cut the ring, etc even if they were not top fighters.

Maricano whom most would consider semi-crude would be considered one of the more technically gifted heavyweights today. He through his punches correctly, cut the ring, rolled, parried, and ducked. He was this good because he had to get through some of the most gifted technical fighters ever, Louis, Charles, and Walcot with very limited natural talents.

 

If you have to box very often, your technique can bail you out or get you through a fight when you're for whatever reason not 100%. With modern scheduling, it's much easier to be at your best come fight-time.

Hence, strange as it sounds, technique is not as important as it used to be.

Edit: Powerpuncher's point rings true for me in addition.