Barring something huge from Mercer, I’d favor Walcott to take a decision here. Jersey Joe was far too skilled and crafty for Ray Mercer. And going 12 rounds is no problem for Walcott
Agreed. But I don’t think Joe gets stopped from one punch by Mercer either. Ray’s power was overrated and Walcott went many rounds with guys like Joe Louis, Rocky Marciano and Elmer Ray.
Walcott was a guy that impressed me when he was at his best. I think he can beat Mercer who, though he had a big punch, big chin and big heart, wasn't that big in the skills department.
I only see two possible outcomes: - a Walcott win on points or - a Mercer win by KO. I lean more towards the latter. 12 rounds is still a lot, I reckon Mercer manages to land something big eventually.
Two highly competent Heavyweights at the time of their most heroic defeats ? Very good match up. For once, Mercer is fighting a guy of about the same size and weight but balance that against the fact that Walcott took Joe Louis the distance. To win this one, Walcott will have to be busier than he was against Louis. Joe boxed beautifully but at times, forgot to actually throw. Mercer had no trouble throwing at all but it was a big help if the opponent did a fair bit of standing still. Ray didn't baffle us with science. I'd pick Jersey Joe here in one of those fights where you want to see the other fella land to make it interesting but he never really does. Jersey Joe on a wide decision.
Thank s. I've put my money on Joe. He proved himself the more, but saying that, it's not an easy fight for him in my eyes. Mercer was up for this one and by the time the fight finished, as we know, Lennox looked battered in the face and a few thought he'd lost. He'd push Jersey, hurt him on occasion but never get that ko punch. Walcott would know he's being in a battle for sure.
I like this match because it's the exact sort of fight that you'd expect either of them to lose. Mercer's frustrations - or losses - at the hands of Ferguson, Holmes, Witherspoon and Damiani indicate to me, that he'd have issues with someone who knows how to use the ring well. The experience, know-how and skillset that Walcott brought to the ring would well and truly flummox Mercer. It just becomes a case of whether or not he can either make Mercer honest (which I highly, highly doubt) or whether or not he can go the distance without being nailed and finished off. I think the version from the Louis fights is capable of doing just that and would win a clear decision. I also like that these two are best known for their elite performances in fights they lost. Walcott has far more substance in fights he won, though.
