Rock Marciano KO 2 Kid Matthews 1952

Well, Matthews was not an IBC fighter and so posed a threat to their monopoly control. Those who were tied to the IBC, fighters and managers, and possibly reporters (both directly by payoffs, and indirectly by echoing the statements of the managers), might well have been influenced by and parroting the IBC line. Most like their bread buttered.

It is worth noting that the Matthews is nothing viewpoint wasn't shared by all. Here is Nat Fleischer in the February, 1952 issue of The Ring.

"Robinson continues to stand out as the best all-around fighter in the middleweight division, though he lost prestige through his defeat by Turpin in Europe. While in the past we have honored Ray with the all-around championship so far as ability is concerned, this time The Ring selects Harry Matthews as the world's best all around fighter of the year. His cleverness, hitting power, ring generalship, and triumphs over all opponents regardless of weight, has gained for him the post occupied by Sugar Ray last year."

Ring Magazine, February, 1952, page 38.

I wonder how many were ever judged better all-around fighters than Robinson.

 

He did beat Rex Layne.

 

LOL...not a chance.

 

If I remember correctly Hurley,and Mathews were offered a shot against Maxim but turned it down to go for the big money v Rocky.

 

Oh okay .lol