Unlike years past, these two prospects (and others) got 3-4 pro fights ahead of the Olympics. Both did well but neither got gold. Was the pro experience helpful, a distraction, neutral? Do you think future American prospects should have their pro debut before the Olympics?
I'm not sure it would've made any real difference. They both did a fine job but found their levels; Batyrgaziev and Cruz would always defeat them.
Cubans are simply on a different level, just can't compare your amateurs to them. Russia had solid amateurs until 2012 after that it's all been Dagestani dudes with freakish power but not as good boxing skills , I haven't seen many guys like Kovalev, Bivol or Mekhontsev these days who box behind a solid jab and have respectable power too. Cubans have good counterpunchers who move exceptionally well,they basically make their opponents get in a habit of following them and then they break the rhythm to land a 1-2 or counter the opponent's punches.
So worth a shot because it was clear the usual thing wouldn't win the gold? And yes they have been a little iffy as pro prospects. I think Davis will do a little something though.
Torrez Jr. might have more upside than either. I know some will say there are questions on his chin but honestly just the one stoppage loss in the amateurs, to Jalolov of all people, is no great shame...and he stood up to some bombs from the same guy today.
Late teens early 20s are chinny years for everyone, they settle in and these so-called problems go away. He could be the Evander Holyfield of Bridgerweight, the skillful small HW who comes down and dominates the new division. I'm not sure about HW though because he doesn't have really crazy athleticism or power, not that he couldn't have some success if carefully managed.
I don’t see how going professional then going back to amateurs is a good strategy. Unless you have only just started your professional career. The amateur game is different for obvious reasons and your training and approach will need to be different. I thought Davis looked great in his second fight and will make a good professional. Having only three fights professional wouldn’t really improve or reduce his chances of doing well as an amateur.
