Two highly skilled, versatile operators in a fight that could have happened. This one would have been a barnburner. Would Tapia struggle against a quick, thoughtful southpaw who could belt? Would Gerry have problems with Tapia's activity, speed and underrated fundamentals?
Tapia by decision. Gerry has his moments. but he is far too one paced to keep up with such a speedy operator as Tapia - especially when he boxed long and disciplined. Gerry would cause trouble though due to his immense skill and calm ring IQ. Tapia did also seem to have some problems with southpaws, and Gerry is levels above Ayala skill wise, but I don't think it would overcome the speed and pace differential - especially in the feet. Absolutely no chance of a KO or even getting hurt as both had monster chins and great defenses. Expect a very high level fight, with Gerry landing the cleaner shots but Tapia throwing at a far higher and faster rate, ultimately to take rounds on the judges scores.
The entire front page is filled with bullsh*t fantasy heavyweight fights that are cross generational. There is no room for this scintillating match-up that could have actually occurred? Or are you all just a bunch of simps who can't discuss anything but heavyweights?
Penalosa wins here. He has a better chin and with equal punching power and defense, no way can Tapia win here.
What rough said. Tapia is too hittable for it not to be competitive but even if he was reckless and didn't reign himself in, his speed and workrate should carry the day. If he was more patient and disciplined like against Konadu then the gap would be a bit wider. Great fight though. I was thinking the other day that Gerry would have slotted in very nicely with the recent superfly crop. Estrada, Sor Rungvisai, Nietes, Ancajas, old Gonzalez, Cuadras etc.
Given how impotent Tapia looked against Arthur Johnson, I'm not so sure he'd win this. Different stance and styles but shows what a smart and crafty operator can do to make Tapia ineffective.
While I agree, Tapia could really up the pace which Penalosa wasn't exactly known to match. I still think Penalosa would pick a few good spots but hurting Johnny was no easy feat.
Does it mean you are underrating Penalosa's conditioning? What is the difference between Pace and Conditioning?
Conditioning is Stamina, Pace is the amount of punches you throw. For example, Wilder is someone who has excellent conditioning, but a low pace whereas Marvin Johnson is a guy with low stamina but a high pace.
More of a case of Gerry not amping it up when he didn't need to, or when forced to chase negative opponents (such as Choo) Against Kawashima (which is his best showing IMO) he turned the wick up just fine. Against Tapia, who could box but obviously like dto build momentum and let his hands go more and more frequently as fights went on, Gerry's ability to pace himself and take what opportunities come his way would make for a pretty thrilling second half of the fight. Likely he loses a decision then, as he's not stopping Tapia. But I think Penalosa could put him in some bad spots.
