What would Ruiz and Byrd have added to Lewis' resume?

What would Ruiz and Byrd have added to Lewis' resume?

Let's assume that Lennox did not drop belts to Chris Byrd and John Ruiz, and actually fought and beat them in 2000-2001, before cashing out big time on Tyson in 2002. At this point in time, Byrd and Ruiz were at their peak.

Clearly, Ruiz and Byrd were much better than Mike Grant ( who Lewis dropped a belt to face ) and Frans Botha. Not facing these two, in my opinion, showed Lewis didn't want to look bad and was somewhat risk adverse to facing these somewhat unique talents of the time.

Choice 1. A significant legacy boost. You could argue that both would be top 6 wins for Lewis, and his resume would have received a large boost proving he was capable of beating a defensive southpaw with speed and a chin, and an awkward jab and clinch fighter, who beat Rahman and was 1-1-1 vs. Holyfield

Choice 2. A clear legacy boost. Enough to move Lewis up two to three spots from where you have him as these two were highly ranked Alphabet champions with their own quality wins.

Choice 3. A mild legacy boost. Good enough to move one spot up from where you have him, but not much beyond that.

Choice 4. Not much of a legacy boost at all. These two were overrated and would just be mere top ten opponents on his resume.

 

Grant was exposed in victory over Golota prior to facing Lewis. He was floored twice, and down on 5-7 points on the judged cards prior to Golota quitting.

The fight before that, Grant could not finish Lou Savarese a top 20-30 type at best.

I thought Grant was a garden variety big man with a soft chin and average type of skills. I knew Lennox would blow him out, which is exactly what happened.

 

How about high voices and no -rematches for Vitali? Let's stick to the thread title.