I'm curious if anybody could help me speculate on these points. Was Spinks vs Holyfield @ CW ever considered during this time period? Looking at the timing of both fighter's careers paths during that era, both men seem in perfect position to face off. Who would win this white hot match up? Spinks fought close to 200lbs during this era (coming in at 199lbs against Larry Holmes the first time around). Meanwhile, Holyfield had his epic with Qawi, unified two of the three belts, and rematched Qawi in solid fashion. Would Spinks have used his awkward style to great effect or would the endless energy of Holyfield breakdown the LHW legend?
Evander takes this from spinks he would want it that little bit more, and was the bigger, stronger and harder puncher, plus am not going to bet against evander at cruserweight he was the best ever at that weight
I agree with what you said about the 'wanting it more' in terms of using the strength to do so, as a style. I'd pick Holyfield here, i know Holmes was aheavyweight, but even in that first fight he dug deep into Spinks' body and Mike had to come through a crisis there. You could imagine Holyfield in his prime, with a far superior workrate to that version of Holmes, to win this fight. I find it hard picking against prime Spinks, even at a slightly higher weight, but Holyfield would probably take the right hand, and force a fight, Spinks would oblige, but maybe Evander edges it.
Evander wins this one. Spinks would pose some problems with his awkwardness and would get Holy's attention if he connects with the "Jinx" but Evander would eventually overflow Mike with his strength and speed and combinations. Holy is the best cruiser we've seen so far and his will to win is Aliesque to coin a word. Holy by decision or late round stoppage.
Holyfield with 16 fights. Spinks with 29 fights. Spinks had the power to knock Gerry Cooney out. Spinks by TKO in 10 rds.
A really tough one to pick. Actually could go either way. Holyfield had greater strength and the better chin. Spinks was more innovative and quicker. I would stick my neck out and pick Spinks on one punch power at CW - but only by a whisker. IMO Spinks will win the first part of the fight and Holyfield the second. I still cannot make up my mind as to whom to pick.