Sonny Liston V Pinklon Thomas ?

Liston tko 9

 

I agree that Thomas isn't elusive enough to keep Sonny off him long term in the fight, but his jab is formidible to lose well enough to last longer than three rounds. Do you understand what I mean? Sonny would win the jabbing battle, but Sonny's workrate wasn't particularly high, which would allow Thomas to use his own jab to get off punches.

Thomas wasn't a big hitter, but he was strong, skilled, and tough so I see him getting good work done before Sonny's skill and huge edge in power allows him to beat Thomas down pretty badly to take a decision if its 10 rounds or a stoppage in the 11th or 12th. I mean, Chuck Wepner lasted 10 rounds with Sonny (albeit an old Sonny) in a fight that was basically target practice. Thomas was far more skillful and not any less durable. Keep in mind that Thomas was severely diminished when he withstood 6 rounds of hellfire from Iron Mike.

 

I just reread the original post, stipulating the 15 round distance. I'll go with 11th round stoppage.

 

One handed Thomas never takes the lead in this fight. Another guy who gets more overrated every day.

 

He was considered by many to be the heir apparent to Holmes, so he must have had something going for him.

That said, I think he'd give Liston a competitive fight at his best but would expect a Liston victory.

 

Pink controlled Spoon, Weaver and at times Tyson with one arm. Dude's jab could be better than Liston's....maybe even the best in heavyweight history. Doesn't equate to a win though. Helluva jab fest.

Liston probably takes it. Sidenote: Fire & Fear by Jose Torres said Tyson complained of nausea for the first time after a fight. All due to Pink's ramrod jab.