Going out on a limb here as at first glance most will likely react in unison "Calzaghe!" but I'd thought I'd ask. There was no 168 division in Minter's day so 160 was really the only option for him as 175 was clearly a bridge too far. Could Minter have carried 168 and fought and beaten Calzaghe? Contrary to most would probably think, P4P I don't think there's much between these 2; at Minter's best I think only Hagler (& possibly Mazel Harris) beat him on merit. Pre-Hagler his only losses were on cuts. Post Hagler Minter was clearly past it. I think the Hagler who thrashed Minter would likely thrash Calzaghe too. Joe has the undefeated career & the long title reign; Minter was highly impressive at his best - better than the stats indicate. We all know their respective strengths & weaknesses. I myself will have to give a prediction on this one some thought, but I'm interested in the thoughts of the forum - so, over to you, guys.
both Minter and Calzaghe won combined the title in their division, but Minter went on to defend it too, so he has the superior resume. As to ability, it would be close with Joe carrying a weight advantage but Minter being the more consummate boxer
yes indeed, bc i would add that in the return fight Calzaghe wins on points. The rematch when Minter is in his 40s.
Calzaghe by decision...he outspeeds and outhustles Minter...and in the middle rounds cuts him up. The blood bothers Minter, but Calzaghe didn't need that to win this fight. He was the significantly greater fighter.
Minter was tough and brave with a granite chin but had zip fasteners for eyebrows. Calzaghe's accurate punches would have cut him to shreds.
