I always get lambasted for saying this, but in all honesty I don't consider Zarate to be an all time great. I just think he's totally overrated. I mean Rudolfo Martinez was a good fighter but other than that his resume is really weak. I mean, sure Alfonso Zamora could punch but he was nothing something and Pintor was awfully green when he pushed Zarate (but Zarate did clearly win that fight imo.) I just think El Terrible's versitility, power, underrated speed, ring intelligence would spell doom for Zarate. Factor in that Morales as the far better chin of the two.
Both Martinez and Davila were excellent technicians (better than Morales purely in that regard). Zarate taking them out showed that he was more than capable of dealing with top notch boxers. His fight with Zamora showed that he was more than capable of dealing with top notch firepower. And where does anyone get off calling Pintor green? I'd say that was right around his prime, whereas Zarate was past his. Either way, I think it's pretty clear from watching their fights who the more efficient technician was. Combine that with his KO power and I'd narrowly favour an in shape Zarate over the defensively defunct Morales at 122. That said, I have no problem with anyone taking the opposing view.
I've never been overly impressed with Zarate footage. I'm not going to continue to repeat myself, but let's just say that when Morales inevitably switches gears, Zarate won't be able to follow suit. Comfortable points win for Morales in this one.
Definitely his most underrated win, and a very underrated fighter in general. I'd say he was on a similar plane to Davila and Martinez, i.e. better than any of Morales' wins outside of Pac and Barrera.
From the footage I've seen from Zarate today he looks real good. Tall, lanky, powerful fighter who can also fight on the inside. Thunderous body shots. Reminds me of Arguello with more infighting ability. I think he would beat Morales but I need to watch more of him first.
