The deterioration was of course overall but what struck me most was how Leonard winced with almost each and every punch Camacho landed. Ray admitted after the fight how much more the punches hurt than they ever used to. Of course with age, lifestyle etc., his resilience was basically zero. Of course its legitimacy as a proper fight is questionable but you have to wonder how the late 50s years of age Mike Tyson’s resilience will stand up if Jake Paul lands anything decent. Hopefully Mike swats Paul before having to witness any such litmus test. That’s how old school parents used to deal with problem children, they belted them. Forget the psychoanalytic, softly, softly approach. Yes, I was a problem child but given the wisdom of “spare the rod..” practised upon me, I soon saw the “problem” in remaining so.
There is no amount of rounds possible to sufficiently allow Camacho to warm up during this fight. All the same, to be on the safe side, Ray negotiates 12 X 1 min rounds, 3 min rest periods, 60 oz gloves and a 30 ft by 30 ft ring. Announcers: “There’s something “up” with Camacho...he’s not showing any of the old movement...in fact, he’s not moving at all. Is he pulling a No Mas?” Ray catches the awkwardly propped up Camacho cold in round one. Ugly. Very ugly. The ringside physician is asked to check on the motionless Camacho. The Dr replies tartly “Why?”. Hector then returns to his Protector...again, thwarting Rays post fight suggestion that they do soft drink commercials together to make even more $$$. Ring Mag. reports on the fight, affording SRL front cover, headlined: - “Ray’s Redemption. Camacho not so Macho after all. Hector’s Boxing Future in Grave Doubt!” Post fight, Ray said he had an “itch” but now that he’s scratched it, he decides that he will retire again.
I dont count that fight but I most certainly count the Norris fight. And most SRL nut lickers dont. You cant cherry pick fights and only count the wins. the losses count also.. So if you dont count the Norris fight , go back to licking his nuts
The look on Camacho's face before the bell rang, you can see him thinking "I'm totally gonna beat this guy."
" I got in the ring I looked at Tommy and he had the eye of the tiger, which I didnt have " ... Ray Leonard in the rematch against Hearns
It was funny how Apollo says this to Rocky, but if you watch Rocky 2, Rocky has a totally sheepish look in his face in the ring and when Apollo talks trash to him.