Many users, as well as many boxing historians, are of the opinion that boxing started getting its groove around the Dempsey era technique wise, and that the fighters prior were pretty much cavemen comparatively speaking. So: the finest technician of the 1900s was Gans. Who do you think looks better on film? This content is protected This content is protected
I guess it depends on what you mean by "better." Everyone has their preferences. Personally, I would rather watch a Jack Dempsey fight. As for the "Cavemen" comment, I do not agree with that. James J. Corbett, Bob Fitzsimmons, James J, Jeffries, Tommy Burns, and Jack Johnson do not look like cavemen on film to me.
"Many users, as well as many boxing historians, are of the opinion that boxing started getting its groove around the Dempsey era technique wise" I've always understood this statement to apply to heavyweights only. Maybe I've been interpreting that statement from other posters wrongly.
Gans looks pretty good - and Bat Nelson was an awkward, relentless brawler so, a stifling type fighter. Was Gans also already sick as at the time of the supplied footage? - I’m not sure. The footage of Dempsey is that much clearer, which can make quite a difference in perception. Also, a bit of apples vs oranges since Dempsey was a swarming puncher vs Gans being a consummate boxer. @Rubber Glove Sandwich also make the excellent point that many saw Dempsey as representing a stylistic paradigm shift for HWs but not necessarily for the lower division fighters.
I remember many years ago there was best lightweight VHS video compilation that I bought. On it was Joe Gans-Kid Herman, I was shocked at Gans´ technical abilities and the counterpunch ko was brilliant. Really was not expecting that. Shame he´s only remembered for the Terry McGovern fight. This content is protected
They have different approaches to fighting, so that is like comparing Benny Leonard with Henry Armstrong or somebody like that... Gans looks good, he counter-punches and do even a should roll there against Herman... but it is such a small piece of footage. I would say Gans anyway...
