Overachievers

The obvious one that comes to mind is John Ruiz. Kind of limited, but he put a nice resume together, however he had to do it.

Gianfranco Rosi was a belt holder with something like 11 title defenses I believe. Can't think of a less talented belt holder with double-digit defenses. Always found that dude absolutely excruciating to watch.

 

Corbett

 

Carl Froch. He had some good power, and a granite chin. But his boxing skills were always subpar for a world class fighter. The man was as tough as they come, though. Both physically and mentally.

His resume is pretty damn deep. He beat some good to very good fighters. Kessler, Taylor, Glen Johnson, Dirrell, Abraham, undefeated Bute, Groves. He's just lacking that one career defining victory over a truly great fighter to put him over the top. He had his chance against Ward, but we all know how that went.

Ah, I didn't see that you already mentioned him in your post. But I definitely agree with you.

 

Without Don King, he wouldn't even be a title holder.

 

As far as I'm concerned, Wilder is the modern epitome of an overachiever.

 

Steve Robinson did really well for himself winning the WBO Featherweight Championship

 

Rocky Marciano, Jeff Harding,Dennis Andries.

 

Byrd is an incredible overchiever. He's got wins on his ledger he should have no business in having at heavy. Hat tip Chris Byrd.

 

Here's a controversial nomination......

Saad - he needed superhuman feats of endurance heart in overcoming multiple challengers. It was almost his theme, get behind while taking massive amounts of punishment and come roaring back for the signature wins. Not to say the man couldn't fight and he had huge power too. Take away even a little of that heart and recuperation and some of the miracles dry up and we are looking at a different career.

Vito Antuofermo would be a fair shout too before i have a further think.

 

Trevor Berbick did well for himself on limited skills. Bazooka Limon would be a solid shout too. Kambosos would be a good current shout.

 

You beat me to it to on Antofurmo. Also Mustafa Hamsho. He only lost twice in 11 years both to Hagler

 

Jack "Kid" Berg has always been the GOAT overachiever for me - lacked big power & was never comfortable using his height/range to box, but managed to rack up an incredible win streak by applying the same inside mauling/swarming approach to every opponent until a rematching Canzoneri finally solved the puzzle (w/ some burnout likely playing a role as well).

 

Jimmy Elllis