Just watching a few of Ibeabuchi’s bouts…correct me if I’m wrong but was Ibeabuchi ever visibly hurt in a fight? How does everyone see this match up?
He was never put up against anybody other than Tua to really test his might. He never looked shook against The Terminator, though.
I think that this could be pretty hard fought. Foreman has a reach advantage and a superior jab, but Ibeabuchi is a pretty smooth operator combination wise, and wasn't exactly weak defensively either. I could see something similar to Foreman's fight with Stewart, only a tad more competitive.
I like Ibeabuchi to quieten Foreman enough with his punch resistance & activity to win on points. Would be very interesting if Ibeabuchi showed no respect & went for the knockout.
And I think once again everyone needs reminding that the quality heavies Ike beat were diminutive. I am not convinced that was a coincidence, and I say there is no data for how he does against big George.
I’m going to go with Big George. I think his cross armed defense and two fisted style would see him to a close decision
They both had solid chins. Foreman in the 90s had a pretty effective defense. Five men survived Ibeabuchi in the 20 fights he had. It took a lot more than 20 fights before 5 men took foreman the distance
Agreed, though I do worry about Ibeabuchi’s work-rate, & the fact he stood in the pocket with Tua with absolutely no fear (& took his power without flinching).
We don’t know how good Ibeabuchi was, he didn’t get to fight a variety of styles and fighters, Foreman could’ve gained his respect and neutralised him with the jab, but Ibeabuchi could’ve outworked him, I don’t think Ibeabuchi’s style is the best idea against Foreman, using pressure and trying to bull your way through, we never seen Ibeabuchi attempt to box and move, there’s just too many unknowns with Ibeabuchi unfortunately which is a shame because he beat some good fighters just before he left boxing. I’m going with a controversial opinion that Foreman being more well schooled, edges him and the fight is won because of his superior jab with Ibeabuchi not being able to take too many risks due to the power of Foreman.
I think 70s Foreman would be a better fight personally and one Ike could win. Old Foreman might be able to just walk the ring and keep himself away from getting out worked up close.
I believe Foreman would be severely outboxed, but that doesn't mean he has to lose. Even though at the time his boxing prowess wasn't great skill/technique wise, I don't see him getting knocked out by Ibeabuchi. I have this bout going either way, by decision. Whoever wins, will not do so by a wide margin.
