I like both fighters quite a bit but I like Sumbu just a little more because of his movement and ability on the outside. Pirog was at his best against punchers when he could sit back and counter punch in-between their shots. Sumbu wouldn't give him many opportunities. He would look to stay outside and pile up points with quick exchanges. Of course he could get caught like he didn't against Nunn but I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt.
I disagree about Pirog being at his best as a counterpuncher, to me he seemed much more comfortable and adept as a pressure fighter. He was a good counterpuncher but he was a much better pressure fighter imo. He could back a guy up into a corner using nothing but feints.
Pirog was an exceptional talent and it was unfortunate that he retired too early but I don't think he would have been able to handle a great pure boxer like Kalambay. The jab, movement, counterpunching, and quick combos would have befuddled the Russian. If Kalambay was capable of outboxing a superior technician like Mike McCallum he would surely have beaten Pirog as well.
He certainly wasn't one dimensional. That is for sure. I agree that he was very effective when applying pressure. I just will never forgot when he came over Jacobs jab with a perfect right hand counter.
The short answer is Kalambay. I regard Kalambay like I do Reggie Johnson....................one of the most lowkey slept on boxers in the modern middle divisions. He had some HOF level wins during his prime run.
