Which boxers were unusually honest with the public? Guys who wouldn't oversell a fight if it sucked, didn't talk up their own performances or make excuses when they lost, admitted avoiding opponents where applicable, didn't adopt a phony persona, eschewed hype, and answered press conference and reporter questions honestly enough to give their promoters and PR people migraines? Note as well that I'm not looking for someone who is good at putting up a facade/act of authenticity, or pretending to be a down to earth everyman. This thread is about the genuine article. (Probably an easier thing to find among long retired boxers for whom plenty of biographical material is available.)
Ruben Olivares is a pretty candid, stand up guy, especially in his 'Best I Faced'. He knew he had the goods so didn't need to brag, and fully admitted his faults too. Awesome guy all round imo. https://www.ringtv.com/616218-best-i-faced-ruben-olivares/ Contrast this to Rodolfo Gonzalez who has the most hilariously arrogant interview I've ever seen: https://www.ringtv.com/530662-best-i-faced-rodolfo-gonzalez/
I love this one. BEST CHIN Art Hafey: I fought Hafey the first time in Monterrey in 1973. I underestimated him at the time and figured it would be an easy win in Mexico. I remember seeing him at the hotel lobby early one morning. As he was getting ready to leave to do his morning roadwork, I was just getting back from a night of partying. In the fifth round, Hafey put me to sleep – a deep sleep.
