Any reason to doubt that he likely still would have been an ATG? From what If I understand Louis' early career correctly (a big if), he was already considered the best amateur light-heavyweight in the country with great coolness in the ring and two-handed power, and a sure thing to dominate in the pro ranks before Blackburn took over his training.
I think its what separated him from a successful ATG Champ with some defenses, to what he actually became.
Blackburn was a brilliant high level strategist, and was also a lifestyle trainer. His combination of boxing knowledge, matchmaking, incubating a fighter, his experiences as a black fighter, all added up to an individual with unique advantages for his profession. And a level of talent that would help an athlete like Louis excel at his best. If you’re looking for specific contributions, there are great breakdowns in the books for his strategies on specific opponents, and in between round adjustments. Louis swore by them.
Something that is largely forgotten. Jack Blackburn died in 1942 on the eve of Louis 21 title defense. And his assistant trainer Mannie Seaman then over took training duties for Joe Louis.
What if Jack Johnson took over like he wanted too. He originally said Louis's stance was all wrong and that he was too mechanical.
I am going to bet heavily against anybody doing better than Blackburn! That is almost like trying to improve on perfection. There are a lot more ways for it to go worse, than for it to go better!
I wonder how Johnson would have trained Louis to handle smaller, mobile fighters like Conn and Walcott.
Good question. While I agree Blackburn did as good as it gets with Louis there's always those lingering what if questions about Johnson at the helm and what differences he may or may not have made especially his criticism of his stance and being too mechanical
Blackburn instilled the blue print in Louis...back that an actual trainer who knew refined techniques, even that of a simple jab and function seemed advanced. Louis like Tyson without Cus does not get far at all BC both required a certain style to succeed.
