Fighters that became significantly more better after winning their first title.

You know how they say some fighters become 20% better after winning their first title mostly due to a high jump in confidence. Who are some fighters that you think were affected by this theory?


Cornelius K9 Bundrage - Was destroyed by Sechew Powell in the 1st round but beats him decisively in the rematch in his first defense of his title.

Nonito Donaire - I haven't seen his fights before Darchinyan but it look like he struggled with 4th tier fighters but dominates top fighters afterwards.



I have a feeling Orlando Salido will be in this category as well after he beats JML again and Gambo in the rematch.

 

Pipino Cuevas.

 

Ali!

 

I dont think he got "significantly" better after beating Liston..

 

Disagree strongly.
Got KDed 2x in 2 fights shortly before Liston by fighters who wouldn't have troubled him after Liston, as he got significantly better.
QED

 

Manny Pacquiao.

He is better today than he was when he beat Sasakul in 1998.

 

Well, take a look at his performances between 64-66, I think he began to turn into the ultimate fighting machine

 

Yes, part of my point intrinsically.
The 2 KDs in fights just before Liston, contrasted with IMO the best HW ever during 64-67. Winning the title was clearly the turning pount.

 

Castillo.

 

Dont forget his fight with Doug Jones who many think that he beat Clay.

 

Froch?

 

Amir Khan

 

I thought about that one but he looked like crap in his first defense against JT.

 

And against Dirrell.

Actually, Froch does well to win world titles (Pascal&Abraham) rather than significantly improving after winning a championship

 

Yes that was part of why I picked Ali for the answer.
I think Jones actually won, though I did not write out a card. And I am a big Ali fan. But fair is fair. The one judge had it 8-1-1 Clay was a joke.

OTOH, that's why Clay got the shot in the first place. Liston's people (mob etc.) figured he had no chance.

Also some even claim that liston didn't train much because he was expecting a short fight. I think that's BS. Clay/Ali just came into his own that night. His D was almost supernatural--including with Lison liniment in his eyes!!!

And his punches cut up the bully who couldn't take it when someone fought back. He quit, not wanting to get KOed.