How much does size really matter?

Yes and no. Guzman's performance against Funeka is a prime example. His added weight gave him a huge advantage against Funeka. He was able to deal with Funeka's strength, had more energy, and even knocked him down in the 6th, I believe. Guzman was not weakened this time due to the weight loss. But, overall, I agree with ya.

 

Size certainly matters, especially when speaking about professional fighters, which is why boxing is based on weight. The bigger guy has an advantage being heavier, he is usually stronger, hits harder.

I am 5'8 and 150, and would not make it out of 1 round with Pac.... I have no doubt about that.

 

But I think you make a clear point.... Skill does matter more than size to a certain extent.... But eventually size will get the better of the smaller more skilled man, especially if they can connect a few times with a hard shot, or have a ref that let them hug and keep their weight on them the whole fight.

 

If the fighter uses his size to his advantage it's a fairly big deal.

But someone like Paul Williams who tends not to take advantage of his height against guys a little short. It means nothing.

 

It's not size it's what you do with it:rofl

But yeah if a big man doesn't use his size(Dimintrenko vs Chambers) by working the jab and staying outside then the smaller guy can go in and tear him up.

 

It really all depends on in relation to the abilities of both fighters, the closer they are in ability then obviously the more the size difference matters especially in the lower weights as any sizeable advantage in strength and power becomes more decisive.

Skill is the main factor, but only to a certain extent, there is a point when even if a smaller guy is more skilled if the ratio of skill to size is greater in favor of size then thats when it really matters.

 

depends on if the big fighter knows how to use his size and if the small fighter knows how to use HIS size...

size only matters if you know how to use it well. for instance, Wladimir Klitschko knew how to use his size advantage against every smaller opponent he has faced... joshua clottey does not know how to use his size to his advantage, as it has shown against most of his fights against smaller opposition.

 

according to this nicely written article, not much:

http://www.thesweetscience.com/boxing-article/7546/tenth-god-war-charley-burley/

edit: props to the author, a poster here at ESB. The entire series is in the classic forum and is a great read you have the time.

 

I'm 5'10 160 and I would also not make it out of the first round with Mannie

 

I refuse to get my mind out of the gutter. :smooch

 

It's not the size of the boat which matters, it's the motion of the ocean.

 

Maybe there's a certain level of difference between size and skill that would be sort of a determining factor. Let's say a top 50 featherweight still beats a 160lb guy who doesn't know anything about boxing. But maybe a 147lb'er weekend boxer can hang with the feaherweight a li'l bit. That sort of thing.

Also, maybe there's a certain point in terms of skill level that when reached, and when combined with the size advantage would prove insurmountable. Say, when a 160lb weekend warrior has fully mastered the art of cutting off the ring, keeps his hands up, some head movement etc. would enable him to probably beat a top 10 welter? Just some rough ideas, but you get the drift.