As much as I like Leo, I don't think so. He has the achievements but not the quality wins to be a Hall of Famer. This is not to say he hasn't beaten some good guys. Frampton, Morel and Mares twice speak to his abilities but I think he just misses being a borderline Hall of Famer. The above view is an "in a bubble" response, meaning the answer is based strictly on Santa Cruz' career. The big picture is that he is definitely better than some guys who are in the Hall so, at some point, Leo with probably making a trip to Canastota for an induction ceremony.
As talented as he is, I think no. He wasted a lot of time. He had opportunities to fight better opponents, and the skills to beat him, but I think like many PBC fighters at that time, he was being over paid and lost his hunger.
- 16-2 in world title fights - World champion in 4 weight classes - Defeated Mares twice, Frampton (loss to him is questionable) and Martinez. - His only real defeat is against Davis who was naturally much heavier. Clearly yes.
Tough question. I’m not sure what the requirements are for getting in but if it’s based off his peers at the time, I say yes. 4 weight champ, no gift decisions that I can think of, has a couple of good, prime fighters under his belt, and a bunch of other notable names, albeit past prime, but still good fights. If I remember correctly, if you’re nominated for the hof and don’t make it in, you’re kind of in limbo and still have the possibility to get in the next time. What are some fighter’s that are eligible and waiting to get in right now that deserve it more than Leo? Anyone care to go through that list?
At the time the Mares fights felt like they could be iconic wins, but then Mares effectively retired. Frampton did get one very good win after but didn't do too much. Kiko has put some work in to improve LSC's legacy but I don't see it being enough to make the HoF. At 118 and 122 he was so exciting to watch though, I won't be too mad when they vote him in.
He's borderline imo. He won titles in 4 weight divisions and fought some pretty good fighters along the way so I'd say hed definitely be in consideration once he calls it a day.
