Mercer on his best day probably wins this. He'd need to be in top shape with a half-decent work rate. I think he'd win a decision.
Good match but I got Ruddock. Guys like an old 40 something Larry Holmes and a washed up Jesse Ferguson gave Mercer fits. Ruddock gets tagged and probably dropped but I think he had enough tools to get the job done...IF he doesn't fight stupid.
Mercer at his best would be too tough and relentless for the best of Razor Ruddock. You just couldn't confidently back a guy with the chin of Ruddock against a big punching block of granite like Mercer.
Interesting match up. Both had low work rates, Ruddock had more power but Mercer was tougher and even though he fought in spurts had the better work rate. But of the 2 I'd favour Mercer.
Mercer had the heart, power and toughness to pull it off. But I'm skeptical. He was slow, had poor defense, not especially skilled, would be outreached and often tended to be lazy.. I can't choose a winner either way.
ruddock on points....go watch ruddock page...that uppercut was so viscious man that i think it would keep mercer honest ...mercer couldnt beat marion wilson nor razor ruddocks sparring partner aka jesse ferguson and in the rematch with ferguson mercer won but struggled again....mercer has great chin butthat viscious uppercut would keep him honest and from coming foreward..
I'll take Ruddocks 19 rounds with Tyson over Mercers demolishing of Morrison in a fight he was lucky to win anyday. How is Mercer not skilled he went in a war with holyfield that he could have won by a close round.he is an olypic champ and a schooled fighter,ruddock had the long range and power we know he also had the chin and better footwork that's why I take him.
Very tough bout to pick, but gun to my head, or money on the line, I think I'd go with Mercer. But I hope whoever had the gun never had any bullets.
Ruddock by decision His tendency to stand in front of his opponent could hurt him here, but he's got a nice height and reach advantage. He had enough power to earn Mercer's respect. Neither guy would be really busy. I think Ruddock wins something like 7-3 or 6-4.
Mercer was not lucky in his fight with Morrison.. Tommy was never durable and he was fighting a very durable fighter in Mercer..