Weaver shut out LeDoux over 12 with his jab on the Frenchman's turf, handed an undefeated Tillis his first loss via a comfortable 15 round UD, and he did not need to knock out Coeztee to successfully defend his WBA Title, even in Gerrie's back yard. He also drew in the rematch with a highly skilled Dokes in a match where he should have left the ring with his title back. Mercer was getting schooled badly by Damiani, Morrison got off to a quick start, then Holmes finished what Damiani and Morrison started. Weaver would also bring it home. At that stage of his career, he had championship round stamina, a championship heart, and some quality skills.
Mercer was much better. He also had great durability as did Weaver. Mike often outlasted his opponents and KOd them with his great power after taking a beating himself. He may not survive the beating against Ray. And if he does he’s facing an opponent that won’t wilt. Mercer stops him in 10.
I like Weaver better as a boxer. However, Mercer is one of those guys that can simply power through dudes based on toughness and firepower. I think Weaver may start well but that he doesn't really have the endurance to survive a drawn out war with Ray. I'm leaning towards a late Mercer KO. If Weaver boxes well and doesn't get too carried away his chances go up.
I like Mercer by decision in a relatively brutal fight. The version of Mercer that beat an in shape motivated Bert Cooper (or Morrison) wins it. Neither had the greatest defense, but I actually think Mercer had slightly better defense and skills than Weaver and I do think he was faster. Both men had very good jaws and could take a punch. Hence a good slugfest that goes the distance, but if anyone gets stopped it will be Weaver not Mercer. Of course, the version of Mercer that showed up out of shape to certain fights would lose to Weaver. But we are talking about two sharp versions. Mercer later lost close to both Holyfield and Lewis. Does anyone actually think Weaver would be that close with those two?
Leaning towards weaver but this would be a brutal fight going and back and forth. Hercules would be wise to box rather than get lured into a fire fight with Mercer.
Weaver. Mercer went down on the cards even at his best. Weaver arguably beat two guys who were better than Mercer in 1980 alone.
