Before the 70's, it was common for light heavies to move up to heavy and fight in both divisions. Some light heavy champs were simultaneously top rated heavyweight contenders at the same time they were ruling their native division. Billy Conn and Archie Moore come to mind. At heavy, Jones was 193 pounds, which was about the size of a top heavyweight contender in those days. Floyd Patterson, before becoming heavyweight champion was a top rated light heavyweight contender and was 182 pounds when he became heavyweight champ. In those days, even some middleweights moved up to heavyweight. I think Lamotta had some bouts at heavyweight, even though his prime was at midleweight. I actually think that Roy Jones would've done quite well as a heavy. I can't think of any heavyweight champion I'd favor him over, even pre 1970, but I think he'd have made it into the top 5 or 10 and I think he'd have a reasonable chance of an upset over any pre 1970 heavyweight champion, even Louis or Ali. How formidable at heavy do you think Jones would be?
Jones was best at 160, and more 168. He would be in over his head against Louis, Liston, Ali, Frazier, Patterson, etc.. imo
I think his career might have been difficult at the higher weight. He might have gone down as a deluxe spoiler. Even after the inevitable loss, he'd be a guy fighters either devastatingly KO or look dumb against.
Oh I'm not picking him to beat any of them. He'd probably have the best chance against Patterson, I just think he would have varying degrees of chance at pulling an upset though, but he may have been a formidable contender.
Not for me.. At 168, his best weight, after he beat Toney . he fights byrd, Pazienza, Thornton, Sosa, Lucas, Brannon .. and no Michael Nunn? .. Point being , I feel there were better guys for him to fight, and if he didn't want it at 168, he ain't going to want it at Heavy ... He's no match for Patterson imo ,,,, but ya never know, I see where it can be argued just not really for me.. I can only imagine Liston glaring down at RJJ and Roy heading for the nearest exit, pulling the fire alarm on his way out the backdoor
