Joe Choynski vs Carl Froch, no weight limit, 8-ounce gloves, fifteen rounds.

It is almost sacrilege to suggest a match like this would be an equal affair worthy of discussion, and I suggest it for a reason.

Choynski is a light-heavyweight who had frequent success against heavyweights, beating a green Jack Johnson in three rounds and holding Jeffries to a draw. He also gained accolades in an effort against Gentleman Jim Corbett, losing in the 27th round. His record is historically or in any other sense the much more impressive.

Froch, of course, is a current 168/175-pound beltholder who is big for his weightclass.

Boxing has changed. After defeating Johnson, Choynski trained and helped the Galveston Giant to construct a fighting style that ruled the world. Many of those techniques are not vital any longer due to different gloves and rules.

Both men have comparable physiques. Froch stands at 185 centimeters, Choynski at 181. The highest Choynski ever weighed was 176, while Froch on fight night is often around 180 pounds or so. I don't know Choynski's reach, but considering the Cobra's freakishly long arms, suffice to say he'll enjoy a reach advantage.

These men were born more than a hundred years apart.

Boxing has come some way technically. There are fewer ring mechanics about, and more sports engines with only one or two gears, but good gears they are. Instead of all-round old-school skills, we have specialised fighters that make the most of their talent and try to preserve their health by fighting less.

Fighters enter the ring in a primed physical state nowadays, but for the purpose of this thread, let's assume Choynski is also in perfect shape.


Given all this -- you have to bet all your money. All your possessions. If you lose, you will be destitute. There is a a lot riding on the outcome.

Whoever you pick, would you be a nervous wreck when the fight finally happens?