Saoul Mamby - Unbelievably Underrated

The best comparison I can draw to a current, well known fighter is Glen Johnson.

Mamby was consistently robbed, and just as consistently fought in his opponents backyards.

He was well past 30 when he finally received a title shot, and he became a better fighter as time went on.

Mamby's best wins were over far more obscure opposition than Johnson's, though, but were no less impressive.

I'll try and shed some light on Mamby's career, his best wins.

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For a fighter with mediocre power, Mamby's one punch, 14th round KO of Sang Hyun Kim in South Korea was a amazing finish to a dead even fight. Mamby won the WBC light welterweight title from Kim with the win.

I know many have said Mamby's win over Esteban De Jesus isn't worth mentioning because Esteban was at the end of his career, but Mamby was actually four years older than Esteban at 33 years old. Having just watched the fight I can say that Eseban looked extremely capable, and landed one of the hardest bodypunches I've ever seen on Mamby in the second. Mamby broke him down and stopped him in the 13th round.

Decisioned capable Jean-Baptiste Piedvache in his native France.

Shortly afterwards went to Africa to decision Nigerian Obisia Nwankpa.

Completly dominated the 55-3 Jo Kimpuanai.

Mamby also decisioned the ultra tough Angel Robinson Garcia in the early 70's.

Most of these wins came during a very short peroid of time. Beyond that, I feel Mamby's record is easy to dismiss because of the amount of robberies and the fact that he fought on until he was more or less 60 years old, diluting his record with a number of losses.

Thoughts on Mamby?

 

Especially considering how he was truly a 15 round fighter, seemingly getting stronger as fighters went on.

Great combination puncher too. Not to mention one of the most durable fighters ever, literally.

 

Not saying he's great, but how often do you here any praise being directed Mamby's way?