How would Meldrick Taylor do in todays 140lb division?

He would've done well for himself, even if his love of trading and warrior mentality led to him taking more punishment than necessary.

Out of the names you listed, I'd give Matthysse the best chance to make him pay just because of Taylor not backing away from a firefight.

The next best odds, I'd give to Bradley since Tim can play the spoiler role quite well.

As I said, though, Taylor would do quite well for himself.

 

He would own the division today. Until his drug habits fully kicked in.

He had some of the best athletic ability ever. His speed was unreal and he was willing to use it aggressively. Can't think of a fighter today in the 140 pound division that troubles Taylor. Khan might have the speed but not the overall boxing ability that Taylor had.

 

The 80s talent pool was deep. The cream at 140 are not doing anything to him now. Khan and he would be a good speed match up but khan can't take the beating Chavez could. I think PAC and floyd are a bit too elite at their best but meldrick is no joke, as some of our modern champs can be.

 

The 80's talent pool was deep, but let's not forget that going in to the Chavez fight, the only fighter in 25 fights that had ever ended up with a year-end top 10 Ring rating was McGirt. He did face a few guys that were top 20-30 caliber and took care of business, but it's something to keep in mind when projecting him against the best of the division today.