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
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.
Interesting McGrain. Like the choice. Do you have any articles where it states Baker was a better prospect than Marciano?
McGrain What do you think of this guy Clarence Henry? [ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDZ0BZBtbSo[/ame]
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.
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.