Does Every Legit (Lineal/Recognized/Number 1) Champion Deserve HOF

I've asked this question previously and it stirred up a pretty good debate.

I've always leaned that every legit champion deserves to be in the HOF due to the fact of the sheer odds one has against becoming champion. I'd have to guess the odds of being champion in any division - despite being so many nowadays - has to be way less than 1 percent.

However, I can completely counter myself by asking the question - "How many fighters actually believe they can be the legit number 1 when they enter any weight division?"

If I had to choose, I would say that Yes, every recognized champion ever has a clear path to the Hall of Fame. The lightest weights could potentially - along with every other argument I suggested - could again cause me to change my mind.

 

Yeah, I mean another debate could be discussing the merits of the boxing HOF as it exists. Some would argue they enshrine those that will bring the most people in for the summer festivities.

HOF I agree - best of the best - but to win a legit championship, you are exactly that. If the HOF is the "Best of the best of the best," (get it, lol) then I get that too.

 

Rahman was the champion in the most celebrated division in boxing history? Pretty sure he will get the nod.

Garcia - So far he's done nothing except win in a pretty celebrated division. I'd have to imagine he's closer to getting in than not.

Edit - to once again argue with myself. I know Douglas isn't in for beating Tyson, so I hear you're argument, lol. I'm Devil's Advocating the hell out of myself.

 

But Braddock is in the HOF...

 

Yup, I hear ya. My question could bring with it so many more questions. As it stands, I think that the answer of "Yes" has to be heavily considered.

 

Your argument helped that aspect of my argument by saying that. If Braddock is in it makes sense Rahman would be.

Again, just arguing for the sake of arguing. I know I've taken a few positions on this matter in the last few minutes, lol.

 

Damn good question. In my personal HOF? probably not. In the hall as it stands? I'd have to imagine it will be seriously considered...especially if they think it will bring a lot of fans 5 years from now

 

I'd have to look at other individual sports to see how participants favored in getting into the HOF when they only won one championship.

I think we - or some of us - severely underestimate how hard it is to win a world championship in boxing.

The argument of champs in fringe weight categories is a good one.