With his outstanding amateur pedigree, had Mario Kindelan gone professional, what level would he have reached ? Would he have for example been a serious challenge for Floyd Mayweather at lightweight in the early Millenium? There are obviously enormous differences between the amateur scene and professional prize-fighting and the history books are littered with failed crossovers (Audley Harrison being a prime example). However, from what I can remember it was always deeply lamented that he didn't fight in the professional arena and he was offered some lucrative deals to do so. I was wondering what people's thoughts are as to this, any opinions welcome!
Pretty much this. It's such a different ballgame that it's hard to call although having such experience would have been a boost
I've seen this question come up before, and for good reason -- Kindelan was simply a masterful boxer, a real pleasure to watch for any fan. The first time I saw him was in the 2004 Olympic finals against Khan. Even then, when I didn't know the sport as well as I do now, I could still tell that he was making Khan look silly at points in a very casual, relaxed way. As for how good he would have been as a pro...the bottom line is that it's simply impossible to tell. There are too many intangibles when comparing the amateurs to professionals. Some things cross over easily -- Kindelan's technique, speed, timing and such wouldn't be altered, but he would have to really adjust his style, and I have no idea how this would impact his performances.
Great point. The fundamentals were definitely there, but who knows as to how he would have adjusted to the professional game. Tremendous talent though, and a real, real shame it never happened.
...it would've been anyone's guess what would've happened. He was an amazing amateur boxer, that's for sure.
