James Bonecrusher Smith v Hasim Rahman

He did, Rahman was the better overall fighter with a decent jab. I've just never seen him outbox a larger opponent behind a jab, and I doubt he'd be able to win that way against Smith.

 

I know this was a while ago, but I didn’t notice it at the time, and it’s a decent matchup to bump.

I still hold a similar opinion, obviously Smith could clip Rahman over the top, Rahman wasn’t a defensive master, and I’m not saying he’d move around gracefully making Smith look silly or anything, but I think he’d pump solid jab out there, maybe whilst holding his feet, but Smith would also be holding his feet because he’s flat footed, and Rahman would get the better of the jabbing exchanges because his jab is better, their weight is similar, Smith is a bit taller, but not by too much.

Rahman’s technique is also a bit tighter, which would allow him to get there first most of the time, yes he could get clipped and hurt because he’s not exactly mobile, but he could do exactly the same to Smith, and likely would more often, because he has better ability and tighter technique.

 

I love Smith but Rahman, he could actually box a bit.

 

Hmm? Now you've got me re-considering this one,,,Bonecrusher by TKO

 

They had comparable physical strength (which was huge) but Smith hit harder with the right hand and had a better chin.
And although he was a pretty basic fighter, I think his jab was fine and could bother Rahman, who himself was a basic 1-2 fighter but a better finisher.

Either Smith stops him or Rahman wins on points.