I think these two make for an intriguing match-up. I may be guilty of overrating McGirt and underrating Tszyu, so forum opinions are most welcome. Have at it!
McGirt by decision. Buddy was very cagey. Hed have to weather some tough moments early but should figure out Tzyus straight on attack. Buddys superior defense and use of angles should carry him home.
I like Buddy a lot. He and Al made for a great story and were available to fans and writers. But I think people overestimate what Buddy actually accomplished. He beat Simon Brown. And then...
1991 Simon Brown is better in my estimation than anyone Tzyu beat. And McGirt was moving up from 140 lbs to do it. McGirt was outsped by an absolutely prime Meldrick Taylor and Tzyu was rendered helpless by the very good Vince Phillips. Both rebuilt their careers. The only thing that could hinder McGirt is that he may have had some weight issues at 140 which forced him to move up. If hes not at full strength Kostya most likely wins as he never seemed to struggle to make 140.
LOL @ people saying McGurt only beat Simon Brown. The Brown win alone blows away Tszyu's questionable resume. Tszyu would never in a million years beat Simon Brown. If Vince Philips could do it, trust me, Buddy McGirt could too.
Simon could be beat. It wasn't exactly climbing K2 backwards to get a victory over him. Meanwhile, Kostya took Zab's O. He took Pineda's 0. He took Bergman's 0. He beat under-rated and once defeated Gonzalez and Hurtado. Kostya's depth wins... and his best wins are better than Buddy's, also.
Great match up. I have no idea why Phillips is being brought in as the be all and end all. Schmeling schooled Louis too at a more advanced stage for Louis. Difficult matchup this one. McGirt has some mad skills and some real old school ability. KT has that great timing, footwork, pressure and power. Kostya more proven overall. I think i'll wait for more replies.
After reviewing both, I've come to a decision I am happy with. Simon was dead at the weight when he fought McGirt. It was a beautiful performance for Buddy, but Brown did not effectively pressure him. A win for Buddy is contingent on the ability to constantly turn Tszyu. Tszyu had a fast- but often too direct- mode of attack. If McGirt could get his man off-balance, he could pivot out into the greater part of the ring and strafe Tszyu to a points victory. Though, in the end, he has the tougher road to hoe; all the Australian has to do is speedily march forward, while Mcgirt will have to constantly negotiate the space between them. I see the close quarter exchanges also proving crucial. Buddy was very good inside, but, again, Tszyu is stronger and rougher. Tszyu likely forces him on his heels. Some might mention the loss to Phillips, but I view that as a gamble that paid off at that particular time. Vince was much bigger than either of them, and he fought Tszyu very aggressively, even from long range. I don't believe Buddy would be inclined to fight like that. I favor Kostya Tszyu to win by close decision.
