Floyd Patterson vs Ken Norton, Prime For Prime.

Ken was just too strong. It would probably have been a very good fight to watch the first six rounds or so, but Ken would really wear Patterson down. TKO in 9.

 

I think most folks slightly overrate Norton and underrate Patterson. Floyd could box and punch and had blazing fast hands and underrated sneaky power. Yes Norton was physically stronger, and more of a bull, but Floyd’s speed and power likely would have gotten Norton’s respect, which possibly would have enabled Floyd to outbox and possibly outpunch him. However I do grant that if Patterson hits Norton and nothing happens, then it’s possible that Norton runs through him over time. But I saw Patterson outbox Chuvalo, who also was a strong bull and had a better chin than Norton.

 

Both men had shaky Chins but not sure if either of them had the ability to take advantage of that. Both were good boxers and were each a little awkward in their styles. Both could go fifteen rounds and both fought their fair share of great fighters. Ken would have the advantage in physical size and strength while Floyd might have been a bit more talented. I’m guessing it could go either way.

 

I pick Norton and he was more skilled than Chuvalo and just as strong. Patterson could crack, perhaps harder than Ali and even Holmes, but he wasn't in the league of punchers like Shavers and Foreman. So im not so sure he's a danger to Norton on that front.

 

Patterson via brutal KO.

 

Norton's kryptonite were Punchers, and boxers (albeit to a lesser degree than the former). Unfortunately for him, Floyd represents a unique hybrid of the two. This isn't going to end well for him.

 

Patterson definitely hit harder than Holmes and Ali (though when Ali sits down on his punches it might be close).