I miss this fighter more than any that I watched in my lifetime. He was really a great boxer, technical, quick, determined. He could also make adjustments, a thinking boxer and he could brawl with abandon. Where do you rank him? Sometimes a boxer is really more than his record.
Can't remember who his arch rival was in New Mexico, but they fought that fight for bragging rights it was similar to the Z-Boys fight out in LA in the late 70's. Amazing the Z-Boy fight was on USA TV. Tapia was very good in his prime.
A little inconsistent but absolutely brilliant when on. If he had pop he would've been nearly unbeatable; as it was he was amazing. Quick, sharp, well schooled. A good body puncher as well, which is something you might not expect from a guy like that. A hell of a junior bantamweight, solid for two more divisions. Good and bad decisions evened out imo; probably one of the 20 best fighters of the 1990s. Shut out some very good fighters. Truly a pleasure to have watched. Manic, both in and of of the ring.
He could have done even more if not for major drug issues. Lived La Vi de loca. (Spelling?) Career stalled for awhile but made a nice comeback, getting the WBO title.
Love this thread, Seamus! Thanks! I was a big fan and believe he not only was one of the most exciting fighters ever, but you practically had to kill him to beat him because he gave his all inside the ring. One of the toughest guys I've ever seen.
I watched a few fights here and there and thought he was pretty good. I just didn't pay that much attention to him though. Then one day, with nothing better to do, I bought his book. An absolutely fascinating (and harrowing) tale from start to finish. Even posters who don't know anything about Tapia should read this astonishing book.
excellent fighter.. Sad story. I started watching him as a prospect on ESPN in the late 80's-early90's.. definitely a special talent
