Hopkins Martinez Marquez W Klitschko Pacquaio Mayweather Moreno Campillo Gamboa In no particular order. The big question is, are Mayweather's legs gone? If you notice, they are all top fighters, most of them are PFP top 10.
Good list. I don't think Floyd's legs are gone. There's a distinct difference in his mobility once he moved up to 140 and 147, but that has been style more than age IMO. Obviously he's not at his physical peak, but he's still sharp enough to get the job done within the style he's molded for himself over the years.
Good list. I think Floyd's legs are slower, but his balance and positioning are still great. You don't have to move a ton to be effective. Floyd is still effective. In that vein, I think Ward also has great footwork. He is always on balance, able to slip punches, and fire back. He doesn't cover much distance, but is extremely effective. I love JMM's footwork. A thing of beauty.
I thought about both Ward and Dirrell, but I would like to see Ward in a fight with a guy that he can't bully on the inside. Maybe Dawson will be this guy. As far as Dirrell is concerned, I think his inactivity hurts him. Does he even fight anymore?
he doesnt use that ali/ray leonard type footwork that much so its hard to tell if his legs are gone, matter of fact i can only think of 3-4 fights where he used that style. most of his fights are "in the pocket" utilizing upper body movement for defense as opposed to lateral footwork.
The last time he used it was against Marquez, and he looked the best he's ever looked IMO. He also had good footwork against Mosley as well.
He does. He can move in and out and throw punches at the same time. In that fight against Kennedy he could step in, throw three punches and be gone before Kennedy could even start to throw anything back. He steps quickly and has outstanding lateral movement as well. It was a delight watching him fight. I've appreciated his skill but at times he looked flat and dull. Against Kennedy he was unstoppable. Precise, technically flawless and driven. He wanted to finish the fight right from the opening bell. I was very impressed.
There is no good footwork without balance,and that's where rigondeaux is a master at,Gamboa however finds himself "floating" sometimes since his style is more offensive,causing those flash KO we have seen before.Lara can keep his balance very well without doing too much dancing. Besides the 3 Cubans I have ; Floyd,JMM ,Donaire ,cotto,manny,ward,Martinez ...
Ward should be in there. Under rated footwork. It goes un-appreciated because he doesn't waste any steps. efficent would be the word.
I'm amazed that people don't give enough credit and analysis to footwork. Fights are won and lost based on positioning and balance. I love watching footwork, particularly on replays of old fights. Marvin Hagler's footwork always impressed me. He was always on the balls of his feet, perfectly balanced, and in perfect position to move any direction at any time.
