Hearns vs Benn

Benn by knockout

 

Tommy at middleweight was a different beast than at 147 or 154. He could be very vulnerable, particularly if he was dragged into a brawl. Some of the best boxing clinics by Hearns though were at 160 and above, and as he carried his power up to 175 he was obviously still dangerous.

Benn is a curious case in fantasy match-ups. People often have him blitzing boxers with his power and aggression, but being vulnerable to big punchers. This seems to overlook that his best wins were against punchers who on paper had better chins (McClellan, Barkley), while some of his worst performances were against fighters with some combination of a good jab, reach and movement. He had a nightmare with Malinga both times, was less than impressive and arguably saved by the bell in the second fight with Galvano, and struggled for much of the fight with Nicky Piper.

Based on this, Benn has more to fear from Hearns the boxer than Hearns the puncher. If Hearns stays disciplined behind the jab, he should either decision Benn or stop him late. If he tears into Benn like he did Hagler you have to favour Benn in a shootout. There is always the risk that even if he hurts Benn he could walk into something like he did with Barkley. This is Hearns' to lose in my opinion and one he should win, but not one I'd like to put a bet on.

 

Good post and good points made...I picked Benn to take this, but can see the scenario you presented.