Will there ever be a time where top fighters in their late 40s or early 50s become more common?

Traditionally, when a fighter hit 30 years old, he was considered an "aging fighter", even if he was still good. And it wasn't uncommon for lots of fighters to be retired by age 35. Few made it to 40 as a top, world class fighter and if they were still around fighting, they were trial horses for up and coming fighters to get a "name" on their resume.

But today, it's more and more common for top fighters to be in their late 30s or even early 40s. Usyk at 38, is considered the best heavyweight in the world and in his last fight made quick work of his 26 year old opponent. Historically, 26 years old was considered a fighters prime and 38 was considered over the hill and if any quick work was made, it was the 26 year old fighter in his prime making quick work of the over the hill 38 year old fighter.

Usyk, at 38, can still realistically beat any fighter in the division. Zang is in the top ten and in his early 40s.

But, in the future, can you see us having a 48 year old world champion who is really looked at to be the best in the world in his weight class or a 50 year old in the top 10 that realistically deserves to be there?

 

That would be unthinkable in the time of Muhammad Ali. The idea of A 45 year old top contender would cause everyone to fall out laughing. Today, it's a realistic thought.

 

Charles was 32 or 33. I know he was 32 in the first fight