Hard to compare because its two different opponents (even as similar as some may think they are) Im going to say the Margarito fight, because Pac layed down some serious serious damage, against what in my opinion was a better, and a more overall imposing/dangerous opponent. Thought one could argue it was less impressive because Marg at least had perhaps more success then Rios did. I also think the Marg Pac fought would beat Rios.
There's also the argument that Rios at 147 was at a better weight than Margarito at 150, and that Rios is still, while a limited skill-wise fighter, a young guy who still hits hard, while Margarito had difficulty making 150 and was older.
:good eventhough i consider pac-rios an inferior win...i like how pac was more careful and smart not opting to go "macho style"...pac was very technical to say the least vs. rios.....
I think Rios just didn't go for broke like Tony did against Manny. Maybe because of the permanent eye damage Margo sustained as a result of his all-out offensives, to which Bambam had firsthand knowledge being his stablemate and all. Margarito was a long time welter and in fact needed a 150lb catchweight at the time. He was a much more accomplished pressure fighter compared to Rios at the time they fought Pac. I just did not really expect Rios would do a Clottey. Not after all the trash talk between both camps.
Well once Rios felt Pac's power... he knew from there on that he wouldn't want to slug it out with Manny which will make Rios open.
