So this is Joe Frazier straight after The first Foreman fight. Joe is still dangerous but diminished , multiple kds , confidence shaker. Still has elite left hook, non stop pressure. Facing Ruddock BEFORE the Tyson fight s, which took something out of him for sure. So... who's winning?
I’d pick Frazier to beat Ruddock. Ruddock had the punching power to hurt Frazier, but didn’t have Foreman’s ring generalship, so I have a hard time seeing Ruddock keeping Frazier from sticking to him like a second skin.
I've always thought Ruddock is a dangerous opponent for Frazier. His "Smash" is a good weapon to catch the smaller bobbing and weaving Frazier. Ruddock also has a big size advantage over Frazier and whilst Frazier is far greater than Ruddock. Stylistically he never beat a big imposing puncher like Ruddock.
Bad stylistic matchup for Joe. But Razor was inconsistent and not very adaptable. He didn't throw his right hand nearly as often as his left. It's when he'd throw the right when he'd be open for Frazier's left hook. He'd have to use his right hand mainly as a distraction. But not too often. I think he stands a good chance when Joe's body and skills are declining. Clearly Razor has the power to knock anyone out including Frazier.
Frazier by UD. Joe may have to get off the canvas to do it. Ruddock would be up and down like an elevator. He was tough though and probably goes the distance.
Can't see Ruddock's anemic punch output working against this guy. He needs lots of room to throw that left hand and Joe would not be on the outside for it. The other big factor would be the defense and straight up style of Razor. His defense overall. I think he gets drilled by viscious left hooks to the body and the head when Frazier is bobbing and weaving and then springs up with those left hooks of his. I think Ruddock is standing there and just watching.
