What heavyweight Rocky Marciano didn't face could have given him the most trouble?

Discussion in 'Classic Boxing Forum' started by SuzieQ49, Apr 3, 2011.


  1. SuzieQ49

    SuzieQ49 The Manager Full Member

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    During his title years 1952-1955?

    Which opponent and why?


    Also I forgot to add him to the poll. But a 7th Nominee is Harold Johnson
     
  2. McGrain

    McGrain Diamond Dog Staff Member

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    Baker. He was actually seen as better than Marciano by some when the two were coming up, and although things went badly wrong for him, he had everything and was a big lad.

    I also believe Summerlin would have been a fine test for him.

    I see Marciano winning both.
     
  3. janitor

    janitor VIP Member Full Member

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    I think Harold Johnson should be in the discussion, and indeed might be the answer.
     
  4. SuzieQ49

    SuzieQ49 The Manager Full Member

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    Interesting McGrain. Like the choice. Do you have any articles where it states Baker was a better prospect than Marciano?
     
  5. SuzieQ49

    SuzieQ49 The Manager Full Member

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    McGrain

    What do you think of this guy Clarence Henry?

    [ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDZ0BZBtbSo[/ame]
     
  6. McGrain

    McGrain Diamond Dog Staff Member

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    October issue of The Ring, 1950:


    "Generally rated as the best of the freshmen who have been attracting varying degrees of attention of late are LaStraza of New York, Rocky Marciano of Brockton, Rex Layne of Jordan, Frankie Burford of Oakland, Clarence Henry of LA, Cesar Brion of the Argentine, Jack Gardner of England, Connie Rux of Germany - and Bob Baker of Pittsburgh.

    Of the lot, Baker shapes up as one of the best. The powerful 23 year old 205lb negro seems to have many of the answers for which the promoters and fans have been eagerly hunting. He can box, he can punch, and he has proved his ability to survive rough going and fight back to win."


    Yeah, I like Henry sure enough. He took the shine off Baker allright.
     
  7. janitor

    janitor VIP Member Full Member

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    I think that Jack Dempsey tipped Bob Baker to be the next champion.

    Of course looking at the list you have prosted, some of their predictions were dead on and some were blind alleys.