This could have been possible. 1976 Olympics in Montreal (July 1976) Competing at the Light-Welterweight Division (63.5 Kg) 139 lbs. Ray Leonard (U.S.A.) Age - 20 years, 2 months Wilfred Benitez (Puerto Rico) Age - 17 years, 10 months -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ray, The 1976 U.S. Amateur Champion at 139 lbs., entered the Olympics with an amateur record of {139-5}, as well as numerous tournament wins. Wilfred, since turning professional in November 1973 (age 15), had posted a professional record of 27-0-0 (20 KO's), which included defeating WBA Light-Welterweight Champion - Antonio Cervantes, and a defense versus 'talented' Colombian - Emiliano Villa. Before turning professional, Wilfred had posted an amateur record of 123-6, and also had accumulated many Championships since he started boxing in sanctioned amateur events as a (62 lb.) 8 1/2 year-old in March 1967. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 'Unconfirmed' reports have it, that Ray and Wilfred had met once in July 1973, in a bout at 139 lbs. (63.5 Kg) (Light-Welterweight). 'Gregorio 'Papa' Benitez said that the 17 year-old Ray Leonard had won a 3-2 (Split-Decision) over the 14 1/2 year-old Wilfred, in a highly competitive and spirited 3-Round bout.
Despite the 'speed and power' Ray Leonard did not knock out any of his '6' opponents in the 1976 Olympics. All of his bouts were (5-0) Decision wins. And not one of his opponents, had the 'quickness' and defensive skills of Wilfred Benitez. All of Ray's opponents were upright, and straight forward moving fighters. Which were 'easy pickings' for a skilled tactician. Only Andres Aldama was comparable in skill level. This content is protected
