Do past-prime/shot losses harm a fighter's legacy

Yes I understand that but the general overall perception believes the other way. Thats why there was such shock when Tyson lost.

You can say it didnt surprise you but the vast majority of fans hardcore or otherwise were shocked because they felt he could never lose. Even Tyson himself starting believing it. He didnt even think he had to train anymore.

 

Which is why people say he beat a "name" etc.

However in some instances, even way past prime the fighter can still be one of the top ranked guys out there in which case you get credit for beating a top ranked fighter, just not as much as you'd have gotten had you beaten him in his prime.