I know very little about this boxer but from what I've read he was a very skillfull defensive boxer who was avoided, which lead him to not get a world title shot. I also read that he was an accomplished boxing trainer, having worked with Lou Duva and Eddie Futch. Looking at his fight films the first thing that came to my mind as I was watching him was Floyd Mayweather Jr. His defensive style reminds me of an old school version of FMJ. And this had me thinking: how good was he? Where does he rank as a MW and how would he have done against other great MWs such as Hagler, Monzon, RJJ, Hopkins, Toney, McCallum, Kalambay, Nunn, etc. ? How would he fare in today's boxing?
Hed win his share,but wouldnt beat Martinez, Ward, Hagler!! he was a mob controled fighter, better trainer.
Not brilliant writing but fairly comprehensive insight to how good a fighter Benton was with use of reports and whatnot. http://www.cyberboxingzone.com/blog/?p=11106 Hagler, Monzon? No. Martinez? B-Hop and Jones were middleweights in an era of 24 hour weigh in's. I'd feel more comfortable lumping them in with the light Heavys of Benton's day, already George did sometimes weigh in over the limit. Sergio? Benton would kick his ass. He saw plenty of technically gifted middleweights during his 21 year career (49-70) and would fit in well with Sumbu, McCallum, Toney, Watson IMO. He'd be competitive with anyone though, he was proven, had a fair dig, a phenomenal chin, and also fought well on the inside as well, he was a strong guy. A defensive savant and top class use of angles mark Benton out as a contender of the very highest quality. Giardello wanted nothing to do with him once he'd won the title. It's very possible that Benton would've won the title had he got that fight. Consider that he was past his best against Carter and in the midst of another good run. I've uploaded two full fights of his on YouTube (Allen Thomas & 'Hurricane' Carter) as well as highlights of his fight with top contender Boyd.
I wish there was more film of him available. he looks great. he would beat pretty much everyone today
Brilliant Trainer and Mind on boxing from those that knew him. People are giving way to much credit to some of the current fighters and trainers.
