We have all heard the term Ring Rust. But when does it really start? I prefer to define ring rust as a fighter who has been out of the gym for 6 months or more, not as a fighter who has not had a fought in a year. What's your definition?
A year or more out of the ring will do it, but training for fights can prevent it to some extent. Ray Leonard says he prepared for Hagler with hard 12-round sparring sessions (v. Multiple opponents, who would go a round or two each) starting several months before the fight took place (perhaps before the fight had been signed and finalised). I must admit, he didn't look rusty. Hagler may have been just as rusty (coming off 13-months layoff himself). I guess it depends on the situation. Of course, the mental aspect is important in this matter. If a fighter has doubts himself, if his "layoff" was one of actual retirement (mentally no longer a 'fighter') it won't matter how much simulation and training he did in camp, or how many times previously he had a pro fight. Even real fighting fitness and conditioning is hard to gauge on a fighter who's been out so long. He might tire quicker just out of a slight addition is anxiety and pressure, and little nagging doubts. Some fighters lose that "eye of the tiger", the hunger - they become civilised.
I believe the Leonard beat Hagler before the first bell. Leonard's team focused on a large ring and 12 rounds. Haglers team focused on the money. Had this been 15 rounds, which was legal back then, I think Hagler wins. Agreed Leonard did not look rusty, but Hagler did early on.
Out of teh gym 6months+ or not had a fight in 9months+. Ring Rust does v.bad damage to stamina, speed, reflexes, punch-timing ETC. Big George needs more credit for his comback IMO.
