Why didn't Whitaker fight Pazienza back in 1987, when Pazienza had the IBF lightweight title? It would have been an easy win for Sweet Pea. He would have made Pazienza look foolish.
Whitaker obviously did Paz a huge favor by not fighting him. These two fighters are leagues apart in terms of skill and talent. Pernell could have sleepwalked to a clear 12-0 decision over Vinny at any point of his career.
Why did Whitaker have to fight Paz? It would have been a foregone conclusion...sorta like Jones Jr vs Paz, only without the ass whipping....just the humiliation.
Juan Nazario... As you are hinting at, Paz/Whitaker did not happen because Haugen had a rematch clause!