Forgive me if there are already tons of threads of this ilk. I'm starting this thread because I recently gave a couple of rewatches to the Holyfield fights against Thomas, Dokes, and Douglas. I was massively impressed with Holy's speed, persistence and odd (in an effective way) darting offense. I remember picking Iron Mike to win prime for prime, mostly due to Holyfield's warrior spirit and willingness to trade when provoked...but now I'm not sure even the Bruno Mike could have beaten the Holy of this time period. It's just the way Evander moved and kept pressing the offense. Douglas did similarly, and had a better jab. But Holy was at least as busy and obviously more durable. Your thoughts?
I doubt Tyson comes in unprepared against Holyfield like he did against Bruno, Williams and Douglas. But who knows. One thing about Holyfield is he's constantly moving and bouncing on his toes.
That's what impressed me, Holy was a bit like a perpetual motion machine lol. You have me wondering exactly how much of a chance Holy would have had with Rooney/Tyson.
I remember taking about Holy v Tyson in 89 it seemed it that it would be him or foreman v Tyson. Then along came Busted !!!
Mike sure had the power to take him out. But when I closely examined Holy's style during that period. Yeah, Holy would have been doomed had he gone into Warrior mode. But what if he hadn't done that? Check out the Thomas and Dokes fights again. Are we positive post-Rooney Tyson could have beaten THAT Holy? Sure, Rooney Mike is a favorite. Not so sure at all about after that....
Who had a better chin? Ribalta or Holyfield's? If Ribalta could take it, Holyfield without a doubt could take it. Heck even Bruno was on his feet when he took Tyson's shots. Tyson hit so hard yet Ribalta, Tilis, Tucker and Ruddock could take his punches. Yet holyfield needs nine count? I really don't understand how Tyson fans like you think, smh...
That's my kid self lol. Today I would say Holyfield has the chin to take a shot from Tyson. Pre 1990, I did not think anyone would beat Tyson. I would also say Holy was a good cruiserweight, but heavy? I do give Tyson a better chance in 1990 at the TOP of his game of course, than what happen in 1996.
