Obviously these were two of the most exciting boxers of all time. Who would win? I favor Mancini personally.
I believe it would be much more protracted and competitive. Boza was a very big 130 pounder and no weakling at 135. In.1980 before winning a 130 lb title he engaged Arguello in a 135 lb non title fight tasting numerous power shots while landing many of his own in eight full rounds of action and never tasted the canvas. While he did quit on his stool after 8 rounds he sent notice he was a legitimate contender. He moved up again in 1982 and edged the tough Robert Elizondo who was a strong top 10 contender. Boza moved up again in 1984 and carried his punching power with him and looked very comfortable at that weight. While Boza would have a four inch height and significant reach advantage he would undoubtedly engage Mancini on the inside. His inside defense was better than Mancini's. However Ray was physically stronger. Their punching power is close. Both bleed. Boza had better hand speed. Both have great stamina. Boza's stamina waned at the tail end of his time at 130 as weight issues became evident. Once he jumped back up to 135 his stamina improved. If Deuk Koo Kim and Orlando Romero could engage Mancini in drawn out competitive fights, a much more proven Boza could do so. I think the difference will be Rays advantage in physical strength. Boza may be forced to fight off the ropes for stretches. Ray probably wears Boza down for a late tko or decision win.
My opinion also Sal, Eventually the bigger,stronger Mancini would overwhelm a game but limited natural super-feather Boza-Edwards. But it would be a dog fight until the end.
I liked Boza but he doesn't possess the pop to get Ray off him at 135, would be a great fight but it ain't going the distance. Ray stops him in about 12 action filled rounds.
I am going to say Ray by close unanimous or split decision. Boza had more than enough juice to hang with Ray in a real good fight, as several others have mentioned.
