Larry Holmes vs. Rocky Marciano

I always though Larry would beat the Rock

 

It's quite possible, yes.

 

It wouldn´t be a one-sided beating in favour of Holmes, he troubled in his prime with so many jokes who didn´t deserve their title shots that a Marciano KO isn´t that impossible...

 

Rocky had the right style to trouble Holmes, but not the speed nor physical tools. Holmes was a master at using the ring, and his quickness along with considerable reach advantage, coupled with his jab, would most likely keep Rocky away from him for most of the evening. If Rocky could penetrate Holmes Comfort zone, then it would be a closer fight, but I'm not so sure that Rocky could hurt him enough to score a knockout, given that Larry survived the power of Shavers, Cooney and Mercer. Rocky also had the tendency to cut and bleed. Sustaining one or multiple cuts over an extended period with Holmes is definately a possibility.

I just think this is a bad matchup for the Rock.

Prediction: Holmes by wide decision or late round stoppage.

 

I doubt that anybody could back up that particular statment.

 

We've had a few Larry Holmes matchups recently. I think I am right in saying the forum consensus has been for Larry to beat Liston, Lewis and Marciano. I have also heard plenty feel Larry might outpoint Ali (I don't happen to agree with this one).

So, prime for prime, who would you be confident of picking over prime Holmes?

 

Ali and there's 3 or so i'd put near even but very slightly favour Holmes i think. He matches up well vs near anyone.

 

That's exactly what I think too. He has a style that noone is kryptonite for, IMO.

There might be a few 50/50s but its hard to be confident of picking anyone over him on his best night, given his technical prowess, conditioning, size and toughness.

 

He most definitely does. If The Rock could actually get The Mallard into the ring with him he'd lose. Larry, fairly wide UD.

 

For sure. I think Lewis, Frazier, Louis, Tyson, Liston and Foreman would all be interesting and open matches. I'd hate to count Holmes out in any tho.

 

Yeah i like Holmes via decision tho it is possible Marciano might have him down. Marciano would be as fascinating as anyone from Louis forward when it comes to seeing how he would fare vs a modern fighter. Dundee is a monster fan.

 

I actualy think Holmes would be something of a stylistic nightmare. And there are a few people I would pck over him unhesitatingly.

 

Who would be the few you'd automatically pick? Tho i'm the first to point out his dodgy opponent selection late prime he's a hard man to beat i think. I can see how people could doubt him due to trips to the canvas and struggles vs average opposition tho.