..my first thought was harry matthews...but he's been eliminated....so...did he ever fight steve hamas in an elimination bout that was supposed to lead to a heavyweight title fight?
Great thread, and a great read. I'm not too versed when it comes to Marciano, as in reading what certain opponents/trainers have said about the man, but I've read, and watched enough of his old fights/clips to know and get a real feeling; just by watching him, you don't get to where he got, and accomplish what he accomplished, without an inner-fire and pride. To be such a competitor, an amazing pressure fighter, with unyielding will to win at all costs, it's essential to have a sense of self, and pride. Proud of who you are, and where you've come from. I'm not positive, and it's speculation, but I'm sure Rocky remembered where he came from, and never forgot his roots. It sure didn't hurt his boxing career, that he was raised up in a blue-collar family with a strong work ethic. Besides his underrated defense as a whole ( admittedly not the best ) and his wicked power, the attritute that stands out the most, for me, has always been his will/pride. I think that, above all else, is what made him such a special fighter, regardless of his physical disadvantages ( Height, reach, weight ). ( Good thread Garfield. Too bad there is a lack of film regarding Harry Greb, as I'd love to get your take on him sometime, and where you rank him all time.....Don't forget Jack Johnson too.:yep )