I think Bratton in his prime was the closest thing to another Sugar Ray Robinson except his punching power, although potent, didn't quite rise to Robinson's level. However, he was lightning quick and insanely talented. Fighting Kid Gavilan multiple times proved to be his downfall, and may have been the reason Bratton's mental health in his post-career years was so poor.
Here's a good article on him from some years back. Bratton is one of the most exciting and flashiest fighters caught on film imo. https://www.vice.com/en/article/hon...er-who-inspired-miles-davis-and-muhammad-ali/
Extremely gifted and exciting fighter to watch, almost like a copy of Sugar Ray Robinson. But he also wasn’t the most consistent and lacked dedication. A tragic life story where he ends up losing most of his fortunes and his health deteriorated. A reminder just how unforgiving boxing can be.
RoughDiamond: Thank you very much for directing me to this story. I wish everyone on this forum could read it. What a story. And how awfully sad. Now the name Johnny Bratton will always mean a lot to me.
