Style comparison: Ezzard Charles / Evander Holyfield?

Discussion in 'Classic Boxing Forum' started by cross_trainer, Jun 11, 2023.

  1. cross_trainer

    cross_trainer Liston was good, but no "Tire Iron" Jones Full Member

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    A virtual cookie goes to the best post that technically breaks down, compares, and contrasts the boxing styles of Ezzard Charles and Evander Holyfield.

    Go.
     
  2. AwardedSteak863

    AwardedSteak863 Boxing Addict Full Member

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    Somewhat similar fighters but too me Charles was more of a counter puncher that could also bang and Holyfield was a boxer puncher that liked to trade.

    I think Charles was the more technical fighter and Holyfield was more aggressive in nature. Both were tougher than a 2 dollar steak.
     
  3. InMemoryofJakeLamotta

    InMemoryofJakeLamotta I have defeated the great Seamus Full Member

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    You deny the greatness of Galento. I can't trust you anymore.
     
  4. mr. magoo

    mr. magoo VIP Member Full Member

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    Tony Galento was a tough guy
     
  5. Hopnchop

    Hopnchop New Member Full Member

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    Both fights could amaze or confound crowds. Both intellectually their best strengths and weaknesses. Both were known more for their willingness to push themselves to reach their peaks, but could make mistakes due to pride.
    Holyfield could fight very intelligently though Charles may have had the better ring IQ.

    Charles was a slight heavyweight even in his day, Holyfield benefited from modern training and science (no snide remarks) to become a bit more heavyweight.

    Both clearly trained their inner selves for bravery rarely seen.
    Charles had to be more the matador, though he was not without snap in his punches. Holyfield pack a bit more gun to the gunfight.
     
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  6. greynotsoold

    greynotsoold Boxing Addict

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    I have never seen any validity in the comparison. When it was made years ago it made no sense to me.
     
  7. Greg Price99

    Greg Price99 Boxing Addict Full Member

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    I don't think they were especially similar, beyond being small HWs for their time.

    At LHW Charles was a supremely talented boxer puncher, the closest to a LHW sized SRR I can imagine. After killing an opponent and against larger fighters at HW, Charles fought far more cautiously as a pure hit and move boxer.

    I don't think Holyfield was as physically talented (though he was still immensely so) and whilst he could box, he was more attritional, relying on his incredible chin, physical strength, stamina and toughness.
     
  8. Journeyman92

    Journeyman92 MONZON VS HAGLER 2025 Full Member

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    Ezzard would also only improve on everything Evander achieved if we took him as he was.
     
  9. Fergy

    Fergy Walking Dead Full Member

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    The winner!
     
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  10. cross_trainer

    cross_trainer Liston was good, but no "Tire Iron" Jones Full Member

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    In that case, I imagine your "contrasts" list would be much longer than your overlaps list.

    Feel free, if you like, to use this thread as a platform to explain why the two aren't a great comparison.