Welcome to Part 11, the final installment of my top 100 pound for pound boxers of all-time series. This is it! Today, boxers #10-1 will be revealed as we count down the 10 greatest pugilists in boxing history!
#10) Benny Leonard
Our top 10 starts with the: “Ghetto Wizard”, Benny Leonard, a man who many believe is the greatest Lightweight who ever lived. Leonard turned professional in November 1911 and became the dominant Lightweight of his generation, holding the title for nearly eight years. His historic reign is all the more impressive considering that the Lightweight division of those times was utterly stacked with outstanding fighters. Over the course of a 21 year career, Benny had an amazing record of 185-22-8 (70 KOs).
Leonard is among the most versatile fighters who’ve ever participated in the ring. He was an outstanding boxer with great quickness and tremendous defensive skills. In many ways, he was the prototype for modern great boxers such as Sugar Ray Robinson, Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard, Pernell Whitaker, and Floyd Mayweather Jr among others. “The Ghetto Wizard” also possessed respectable punching power as well. Not only was Benny an all-time great at Lightweight, he also more than held his own with some of the top Welterweights of his era such as hall of famers Jack Britton and Ted “Kid” Lewis.
Leonard won the Lightweight championship in May 1917 with a 9th round knockout over fellow hall of famer Freddie Welsh. He defended the title eight times and never lost it in the ring. Inclusive of his numerous non-title matches, his overall record was an incredible 82-2-1 during this span. At the urging of his mother, Benny chose to retire at the age of 28 in January 1925.
Plagued by financial difficulties, Benny returned to the ring in October of 1931 after a more than seven year layoff. He was now 35 years of age and had gained a significant amount of weight, scaling between 147 and 153 for his comeback bouts. In spite of being well past his prime, Leonard still went 19-0-1 (7 KOs) during his comeback before facing Jimmy McLarnin in October 1932. This represented Benny’s: “one fight too many”. He suffered a bad beating before the fight was stopped in the sixth round.
Leonard’s significant opponents included: Soldier Bartfield (won four), Rocky Kansas (won three), Lew Tendler (won twice), Freddie Welsh (won twice and lost), Jack Britton (won twice and lost), Johnny Dundee (won four, lost twice and drew twice), Charley White (won), Pinky Mitchell (won), Philadelphia Pal Moore (won), Johnny Kilbane (won and lost), Willie Ritchie (won and lost), Ted “Kid” Lewis (draw), Jimmy McLarnin (lost), and Joe Shugrue (lost),
Leonard was an outstanding 14-6-2 (3 KOs) against fellow IBHOF hall of famers. This includes victories over five men who appear on this top 100 list (Dundee, Kilbane, Welsh, Britton, Lewis and Tendler). Leonard’s legendary talent and quality of opposition along with his dominant reign at Lightweight earns him a place among the pantheon of boxing’s top 10 of all time.
#9) Gene Tunney
Gene Tunney may be one of the most underrated and underappreciated all-time greats ever seen in a boxing ring. From the other lists I’ve seen, I believe I’m the only one who has him in the top 10. Tunney was a champion at Heavyweight and, arguably, belongs in the top ten there. At the same time, he may have been the greatest ever seen at Light Heavyweight as well. Over a 13 year career, lasting from 1915 to 1928, Tunney compiled a professional record of 79-1-4 (48 KOs) and 1 no contest. That equates to only one loss in 85 career bouts.
Tunney was a marvelous boxer with excellent speed and defensive skills. He also possessed solid punching power, particularly as a Light Heavyweight as evidenced by his 48 knockouts in 79 wins. Gene had an iron chin, tremendous heart and excellent body punching skills as evidenced in his five bouts with all-time great Harry Greb.
Tunney’s two signature opponents were Harry Greb and Jack Dempsey. Greb and Tunney fought five times between 1922 and 1925. The Pittsburgh Windmill overwhelmed Tunney in their first match in May 1922, breaking his nose and busting up his face in a brutal 15 round decision win. Tunney adjusted in the second matchup, in February 1923, battering Greb to the body and winning by decision win. Tunney and Greb would go on to face each other three more times with Tunney winning two and the third ending in a draw. Tunney was coming into his own and was just a bit too slick and too skilled for Greb now.
Then came his two battles with Dempsey. Tunney won the Heavyweight championship with a convincing 10 round decision over Dempsey in September 1926, in a virtual shutout. In the September 1927 rematch, he dominated again with the exception of one moment. In the 7th, Dempsey floored Tunney and, to this day, many speculate that Gene was given precious extra seconds to recover while Jack was ushered off to a neutral corner. Controversy aside, Gene went on to win a convincing decision. After one more defense against Tom Heeney, Tunney retired at the age of 31. He was unique in that he was one of the very few men in boxing history who never returned to the ring and didn’t hang on for that “one fight too many” that so many legends in boxing history.
Aside from Greb and Dempsey, Tunney’s other significant opponents included: Chuck Wiggins (won twice), Leo Houck (won twice), Jimmy Delaney (won twice), Georges Carpentier (won), Jeff Smith (won), and Tommy Gibbons (won), Battling Levinsky (won) and Tommy Loughran (drew).
In the end, Tunney’s record against fellow IBHOF hall of famers was an impressive 8-1-2 (2 KOs). This includes victories over Gibbons (#45 on this list), Dempsey (#34), and Greb (still to come). Tunney was one of the most skilled and accomplished fighters ever seen in the ring and, in my view, warrants a place among the top 10 ever in boxing history.
#8) Joe Louis
Joe Louis is one of the two the most historically important boxers, along with Jack Johnson, who ever set foot in the ring. As Heavyweight champion, he achieved mainstream popularity years before Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in baseball in 1948.
Louis turned professional in September 1934, reeling off 24 consecutive victories with 20 knockouts including wins over: Primo Carnera, Max Baer, and Paulino Uzcudun. He was a quick handed with excellent boxing skills and devastating punching power. In June 1936, the 22 year old Louis faced off against former Heavyweight champion Max Schmeling, a German fighter, at Yankee Stadium. Schmeling administered a painful boxing lesson to the young Louis on that evening, tattooing Louis the entire night, before scoring a shocking 12th round knockout victory.
Louis then reeled off 7 consecutive victories, earning a title opportunity against James J. Braddock, in June 1937. The Brown Bomber survived a first round knockdown, knocking Braddock out in the 8th round. He went on to hold the title for 12 years, defending 25 times, both all-time records. Louis actively sought a rematch with Schmeling which would take place June 22, 1938 at Yankee Stadium. Given the pre-World War II escalation of tensions between the US and Germany, this was perhaps the most politically charged event in sports history. America now adopted an African American as their hero against Schmeling, who had become a symbol of Nazi Germany. The fight was both quick and painful as Louis destroyed Max in just 2:04, winning by 1st round knockout.
Louis then went on what was called the “Bum of the Month” club tour, dispatching 13 straight opponents. In June 1941, former Light Heavyweight champion Billy Conn gave the “Brown Bomber” one of the toughest tests of his career. Conn confused Joe with his boxing skills and was ahead on points after the 12th round before succumbing to Joe’s power in the 13th. Louis enlisted in the Army in 1942. His reward for serving country, a lifetime of being dogged and harassed by the IRS.
In June 1946, Louis easily dispatched Billy Conn in the 8th round of their rematch. After dispatching of Tami Mauriello in one round, the Brown Bomber would go on engage in two tough title defenses against Jersey Joe Walcott. The first was a controversial decision win over Walcott in December 1947; The second was an 11th round KO victory in the rematch in June 1948. Louis, by now almost 35 years of age, retired on March 1, 1949.
However, plagued by financial difficulties, Joe returned to the ring. He challenged newly crowned Heavyweight champion Ezzard Charles in September 1950, losing a convincing decision. In October 1951, the Brown Bomber faced young lion Rocky Marciano. On a sad night at Madison Square Garden, which marked the beginning of one legend and the end of another, Rocky dispatched of Joe in 8 rounds. Louis retired permanently after this fight.
Joe Louis had a career record of 66-3 (52 KOs). His historic championship reign and status as one of the two greatest Heavyweights who ever lived earn him a place among boxing’s top 10 fighters of all time.
#7) Sugar Ray Leonard
Some might say, how can you have a guy with only 40 fights ranked this high? I would respond that, in spite of the relative brevity of his career, SRL was truly that special.
He was the most skilled fighter seen in the ring since the days of another guy named Sugar. SRL possessed blazing hand speed and excellent footwork. He had formidable power in both hands and was a devastating finisher. Just ask guys like Davey Boy Green, Daniel Gonzalez, Andy Price, and Pete Ranzany. Leonard was a vicious body puncher and an effective in-fighter, possessing an excellent chin, an iron will, and coolness under fire.
Sugar Ray fought and defeated men such as: Willie Rodriguez, Floyd Mayweather Sr., Randy Shields, Armando Muniz, Adolf Viruet, Marcos Geraldo, Tony Chiaverini, Pete Ranzany, and Andy Price, before receiving his first title shot. In November 1979, Leonard bested undefeated WBC Welterweight champion, and fellow hall of famer, Wilfred Benitez, by a 15th round stoppage. Seven months later, in June 1980, he faced the legendary Roberto Duran. Sugar Ray exercised great courage, if not great strategy, choosing to rumble on the inside. Even though Leonard lost, he more than held his own and some believe he actually won the fight. He changed tactics choosing to box Duran in their November 1980 and dominated before Duran uttered the infamous “No mas” in round 8.
In June 1981, Sugar Ray tuned up for an impending matchup with Thomas Hearns by stopping undefeated WBA Jr. Middleweight champion Ayub Kalule in the 9th round. Then came his showdown with the undefeated Hearns for the unified Welterweight championship. Leonard fell behind on points early but eventually wore Tommy down and stopping him in the 14th round. Leonard’s career was cut short when he was diagnosed with a detached retina in May 1982 and chose to retire rather than risk further injury.
Two years later, Sugar Ray launched a comeback but rethought after a tougher than expected fight with Kevin Howard, in which he was dropped for the first time in his career. However, he changed his mind once again, coming out of retirement to challenge Middleweight champion Marvelous Marvin Hagler in April 1987. SRL entered as a heavy underdog but shocked the world by out boxing Hagler and winning a close decision victory. Prime Hagler or not, this was a spectacular accomplishment for a man who’d only been in a boxing ring once in the previous five years.
In November 1988, Sugar Ray defeated WBC Light Heavyweight champion Donny Lalonde, rallying from a 4th round knockdown to stop him in 9. This was his last truly special moment in the ring. He faced Hearns and Duran again in 1989, battling to a controversial draw with Tommy and winning a convincing decision over Duran. Leonard then suffered convincing losses to Terry Norris and Hector Camacho in comeback attempts.
Overall, Sugar Ray Leonard retired with a record of 36-3-1 (25 KOs). With world titles in five separate weight classes and victories over four members of the top 100: Benitez (#78), Hearns (#31), Hagler (#19), and Duran (#6), Sugar Ray belongs among boxing’s top 10 all-time greats.
#6) Roberto Duran
Roberto Duran and Sugar Ray Leonard are forever intertwined in the fabric of boxing history. It’s only fitting that they appear consecutively on this list. Over the course of a 33 year career, lasting from 1968 to 2001, Duran faced the best fighters of multiple generations ranging from Lightweight to Middleweight, compiling a record of 103-16 (70 KOs).
Duran turned professional at the age of 16 in February 1968. He won 28 consecutive fights leading up to his first title chance against WBA Lightweight champion Ken Buchanan in June 1972. Roberto manhandled Buchanan over the course of the fight, stopping him in the 13th round. He ruled the Lightweight division with an iron fist over the next 6+ years defending the title 12 times, 11 of these by knockout.
Duran’s biggest rival during his days at Lightweight was Esteban De Jesus. In a November 1972 non-title fight, Dejesus floored Duran in the first and went on to win a 10 round decision. Duran faced Dejesus in a rematch in March 1974. Esteban again dropped Duran in the before Roberto rallied to stop him in the 11th round. In a rubber match, in January 1978, it was actually Duran’s boxing skills that made the difference as he stopped Esteban in the 12th round.
Duran then moved up in weight to Welterweight, scoring a convincing victory over former champion and fellow hall of famer Carlos Palomino in June 1979. One year later, he challenged glamour boy Sugar Ray Leonard for the WBC Welterweight title in June 1980. In the signature performance of his career, he defeated Sugar Ray in a slugfest, winning by unanimous decision. However, in the rematch, Duran couldn’t recapture the magic and fire of five months earlier and, in one of the most bizarre endings in boxing history, said “No mas” in the 8th round.
Duran muddled through the next two years of his career, losing by decision to Wilfred Benitez for the WBC Jr. Middleweight title in January 1982 and then by decision to journeyman Kirkland Laing that September. He faced former Welterweight champion Pipino Cuevas turning back the clock and stopping him in the fourth round. Duran then faced undefeated WBA Jr. Middleweight champion Davey Moore in June 1983. He was brilliant, overwhelming and battering Moore on the way to 8th round TKO victory. Duran then faced undisputed Middleweight champion Marvelous Marvin Hagler. He lost by unanimous decision but was first challenger ever to force Marvelous Marvin to go the distance.
In June 1984, he was starched in two rounds by Thomas Hearns and this seemed to mark the end of Duran’s career. However, once again, Roberto reinvented himself, capturing the WBC Middleweight championship by decision over Iran Barkley at the age of 37 in February 1989. He would remain competitive over the next 13 years facing the likes of: Jorge Castro, Vinny Pazienza, Hector Camacho, and William Joppy, before finally retiring at the age of 50.
Duran’s dominance at Lightweight, success at higher weights, longevity, and ability to reinvent himself again and again earn him a place among boxing’s top 10 ever.
#5) Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Marcellus Clay, might be the most iconic sports figure of the 20th century. After capturing Olympic Gold, he turned professional in October 1960 and won his first 19 fights (15 by knockout), setting up a Heavyweight title match with the fearsome Sonny Liston in February 1964.
Most experts believed Sonny would destroy Cassius in just a few rounds. However, Clay shocked the world with his blistering speed and combination punching winning by 7th round TKO! In a rematch 15 months later, Clay, now known as Muhammad Ali, won by a controversial 1st round knockout. Ali would go on to defend the title 9 times. After he refused induction into the US Army based on religious grounds as a practicing Muslim, he was stripped of his Heavyweight title in 1967 and exiled from boxing over the next three years.
After comeback victories over Jerry Quarry and Oscar Bonavena in 1970, he signed to face Joe Frazier in a battle of undefeated Heavyweight champions in March 1971. This fight transcended boxing and the world of sports, more than living up to the billing as Frazier relentlessly wore down Ali over the course of 15 brutal rounds. Ali suffered his first loss but demonstrated the courage and iron will which became his trademark.
In March 1973, Ali was upset by relative unknown Ken Norton, who broke his jaw on the way to a 12 round decision victory. Six months later, Ali prevailed in a rematch against Norton by a close split decision. In January 1974, Ali gained revenge against Frazier, winning the rematch by a 12 round unanimous decision.
Then came the “Rumble in the Jungle” in October 1974. Again, Ali shocked the world, wearing down the destroyer Foreman and knocking him out in the eighth round. Seven years after he’d been stripped of the title, Muhammad Ali stood on top of the world once again as Heavyweight champion. On October 1st, 1975, Ali faced old rival Frazier in a rubber match. This looked to an easy payday for him as Smokin Joe was considered to be shot. However, Frazier brought his a-game, and the result was 14 brutal and grueling rounds. After the 14th, Joe was completely blinded resulting in a victory for Ali. The reality is both men should have retired after this fight.
Overall, Ali would defend 10 times during his second title reign, including a rubber match victory over Norton in September 1976. In February 1978, an aging 36 year old Ali, lost his title to neophyte Leon Spinks by decision. He defeated Spinks in the rematch in September 1978, capturing the Heavyweight title for the third time. Ali retired but came back two years later to face WBC Heavyweight champion Larry Holmes in October 1980. A 38 year old Ali was no match for Holmes, who beat him badly over the course of 10 sad rounds. In December 1981, Ali faced contender Trevor Berbick. Once again, he was easily defeated and this marked the end of his career.
Muhammad Ali ended his 21 year boxing career with a record of 56-5 (37 KOs). Ali the icon was also a special and unique fighter who definitely belongs among the top 5 greatest ever.
#4) Sam Langford
Sam Langford is the greatest fighter in boxing history never to win a world title. He was the best of a group of great African-American Heavyweights of the late 19th century and early 20th century who were unjustly denied a shot at the crowd. This group also included other iconic names such as Peter Jackson, Sam McVea, Joe Jeanette, and Harry Wills. It is an utter travesty that none of these men ever received a title chance. Langford was the best fighter of this group.
Sam was a diminutive 5’7 1/2’’ but was very powerfully built. He competed at Lightweight all the way up to Heavyweight over the course of his storied career, capturing the African American version of the Middleweight and Heavyweight championships. Langford possessed all the tools of a great fighter. He had fast hands, an outstanding left jab, and legendary punching power in both hands. Sam was also a terrific defensive fighter and possessed an excellent chin.
Over the course of a 24 year career, lasting from 1902 to 1926, Langford engaged in a ridiculous 316 bouts and had a record of 210-44-55 (128 KOs). In his prime, Langford weighed between 155-180 pounds and yet more than held his own against much bigger men. Among many historians, Langford ranks among the very best Light Heavyweights who ever lived, more in line with his natural weight. He also ranks highly among the greatest Heavyweight’s ever as well. Sam likely would have been a champion in both weight classes had he been given a fair opportunity.
Langford’s significant opponents included: Battling Jim Johnson (won nine and drew three), Fireman Jim Flynn (won five and lost), Joe Jeannette (won eight, lost two and drew four), Sam McVea (won seven, lost twice and drew six), Dixie Kid (won twice), Bearcat Wright (won three, lost and drew), Jeff Clark (won five, lost two and drew three), George Godfrey (won twice and drew), Joe Gans (won), Mike Schreck (won), Stanley Ketchel (won), Philadelphia Jack O’Brien (won), George “Elbows” McFadden (won), Tiger Flowers (won). Kid Norfolk (won), Young Peter Jackson (won twice, lost and drew), Jack Blackburn (won, drew three and one no contest), Gunboat Smith (won and lost), Bill Tate (won four, lost four, and drew), Joe Walcott (drew), Dave Holly (won, lost and drew twice), Jack Johnson (lost), Willie Meehan (lost), Fred Fulton (lost twice) and Harry Wills (won two, lost thirteen, and drew twice),
Langford had a ridiculous 26 victories over fellow IBHOF hall of famers. He more than held his own against the great Heavyweights of his era in spite of the fact that he was the much smaller man in many of these matchups. Only Harry Wills had his number with Harry again being much bigger and all of the bout occurring after Sam turned 30. Langford is more than deserving of a place among the pantheon of boxing’s five great ever.
#3) Henry Armstrong
How could a guy who not only held world titles in three separate weight classes but held them all at the same time not be included among the top 3 boxers ever? Henry Armstrong won world titles at Featherweight, Lightweight, and Welterweight division. This represents world championships in 3 of the 8 original divisions. No sissy titles in junior divisions for Henry Armstrong. He damn near won the Middleweight crown as well fighting to a controversial draw with champion Ceferino Garcia. Over a 14 year career, Henry amassed a professional record of 151-21-9 (101 KOs).
Homicide Hank was a whirlwind, a guy who overwhelmed opponents with relentless pressure and volume punching. He possessed awesome power, at one point, scoring 27 straight knockouts between January 1937 and March 1938. Armstrong had boundless stamina and incredible courage. Over a three year period, between 1937 and 1939, which represented his prime, he won his three world titles and compiled a ridiculous record of 52-1 (44 KOs).
Armstrong captured the Featherweight championship in October 1937 with a 6th round KO over Petey Sarron. He would go on to capture the Welterweight championship less than one year later with a convincing 15 round decision win over Barney Ross in May 1938. Hank weighed just 133 lbs. for the fight. In his very next fight, he captured the Lightweight title with a split decision victory over Lou Ambers in June 1938. He would lost the Lightweight title by a controversial unanimous decision in a rematch with Ambers in August 1939. Armstrong was penalized 5 rounds due to low blows which made the difference in the fight. Having lost the Lightweight title, Armstrong still held the Welterweight crown and would now focus his efforts there. Overall, he defended the Welterweight title an amazing 17 times before losing it to Fritzie Zivic by unanimous decision in October 1940. Zivic would also defeat him in a rematch in January 1941, by 12th round TKO. Armstrong would go on to fight another four years but never again challenge for a world title.
Armstrong significant opponents include: Aldo Spoldi (won three), Ralph Zannelli (won three), Mike Belloise (won three), Alton Black (won twice), Juan Zurita (won twice), Lew Jenkins (won twice), Midget Wolgast (won), Frankie Klick (won), Benny Bass (won), Petey Sarron (won), Barney Ross (won), Davey Day (won), Joe Ghnouly (won), Pedro Montanez (won), Paul Junior (won), Al “Bummy” Davis (won), Mike Belloise (won), Leo Rodak (won), Tippy Larkin (won), Sammy Angott (won), Baby Arizmendi (won three, lost twice), Ceferino Garcia (won, drew), Lou Ambers (won and lost), Willie Joyce (won twice and lost twice), Fritzie Zivic (won and lost twice), Beau Jack (lost), Sugar Ray Robinson (lost),
Armstrong’s record against fellow IBHOF hall of famers was an excellent 12-7. As a man who held titles in 3 of the original 8 divisions, Armstrong belongs among the top 3 in boxing history.
#2) Harry Greb
It is absolutely unfathomable that this legend and all-time great fought much of his career half blind. Greb was thumbed in his right eye in a 1921 matchup with Kid Norfolk suffering a retinal tear. He eventually lost complete vision in that eye but continued to fight on. Greb managed to get by his pre-fight physicals by memorizing the eye chart, thus keeping his compromised vision a secret from opponents.
Harry Greb’s greatness cannot be overstated and some ring historians believe that he is the greatest pound for pound fighter of all time. My personal opinion is that there was one guy who was better, but one and only one. Greb was fierce and ruthless in the ring, possessing boundless stamina and an iron chin. His swarming style was a nightmare for opponents. Greb was no mindless brawler but possessed blistering speed and excellent defensive skills to augment his relentless aggression. In one single year, 1919, Greb went 45-0, which is only 3 less wins than Floyd Mayweather has had in his entire career.
Over the course of a 13 year career, starting in 1913 and cut short by his untimely death in 1926, he engaged in 298 bouts, ending his career with a ridiculous record of 261-17-18 (48 KOs). No one in boxing history faced the breadth, depth, and quality of opposition that Harry did. Greb won the World Middleweight championship in August 1923 with a decision victory over Johnny Wilson. He defended the title four times before losing it to Tiger Flowers by a controversial decision in February 1926.
Greb’s significant opponents included: Chuck Wiggins (won eight and drew), Bob Moha (won six), Battling Levinsky (won six), Zulu Kid (won five), Jeff Smith (won six and drew), Willie (KO) Brennan (won three), Johnny Wilson (won three), Jimmy Delaney (won three), Leo Houck (won three), Al McCoy (won twice), Willie Meehan (won twice), Jack Dillon (won twice), Mike McTigue (won twice), Tommy Loughran (won four, lost and drew), Billy Miske (won twice and drew), Soldier Bartfield (won three, lost and drew), Jack Blackburn (won), Eddie McGoorty (won), Gunboat Smith (won), Jimmy Slattery (won), Mickey Walker (won), Maxie Rosenbloom (won), Lou Bogash (won), George Chip (won twice, lost and drew), Tommy Gibbons (won twice, lost twice), Mike Gibbons (won and lost), Kid Norfolk (won and lost), Mike O’Dowd (drew), Tiger Flowers (won and lost twice) and Gene Tunney (won, lost three and drew).
Greb holds victories over numerous members of the I.B.H.O.F hall of fame and arguably faced the toughest opposition in boxing history. He averaged more than 20 fights per year over the course of his career facing the iron of the Middleweight and Light Heavyweight divisions, and even held his own against some Heavyweights. Legend has it that the legendary Jack Dempsey, after getting his ass kicked by Greb in a sparring session ducked him for the remainder of his career. Harry Greb was truly special and is one of the two greatest boxers ever to step in the ring. Now for #1!
#1) Sugar Ray Robinson
Seriously, c’mon, is anyone really surprised here? There have been many difficult choices for me in determining my top 100 but this was not one of them. I’ll go back to the criteria I established at the start of this process to show why Sugar Ray Robinson is indisputably the greatest boxer of all-time
Dominance: Robinson went 128-1-2 (84 KOs) over the first 11 years of his boxing career. He was unbeatable at Welterweight, the only loss during that period coming against Middleweight Jake Lamotta, who he would go on to defeat five times. SRR is indisputably the greatest Welterweight who ever lived and many regard him as the greatest Middleweight as well. He was a 5 time champion at Middleweight, with many outstanding victories after he turned 30. Robinson was arguably the fighter of the decade for both the 1940’s and 1950’s
Quality of Opposition: Here’s the lineup of outstanding fighters SRR faced over the course of his legendary 25 year career: Jake Lamotta (won five and lost), Izzy Jannazzo (won four), Bobo Olson (won four), Sammy Angott (won three), Marty Servo (won twice), Fritzie Zivic (won twice), California Jackie Wilson (won twice), Tommy Bell (won twice), Kid Gavilan (won twice), Joe Ghnouly (won), Ralph Zanelli (won), Henry Armstrong (won), Georgie Abrams (won), Steve Belloise (won), Charley Fusari (won), Holly Mims (won), Rocky Graziano (won), Cyrille Delannoit (won), Randy Turpin (won and lost), Carmen Basilio (won and lost), Denny Moyer (won and lost),Gene Fullmer (won, lost twice, drew), Joey Maxim (lost), Ralph “Tiger” Jones (lost), Joey Archer (lost). Joey Giardello (lost) and Paul Pender (lost twice),
SRR’s quality of opposition was legendary. Only, Harry Greb’s resume is more impressive in that regard.
Talent/Skills: Sugar Ray Robinson was long and lean and literally could do everything in the ring. He possessed the grace and fluidity of a Muhammad Ali, the hand speed and blistering combination punching of a Sugar Ray Leonard, and the punching power of a Thomas Hearns. Sugar Ray Robinson was also extremely durable, possessing an outstanding chin. He could beat you in more ways than another fighter in boxing history.
Longevity: Sugar Ray Robinson’s career lasted an amazing 25 years, lasting from 1940 to 1965. His professional record was 173-19-6 (108 KOs). 18 of the 19 losses and 4 of the six draws when he was past his prime. The only stoppage of Sugar’s Ray’s career was the result of heat stroke, not the punches of another man. He collapsed in the 13th round due to searing 104 degree heat when he challenged Joey Maxim for the Light Heavyweight crown in June 1952. Robinson was well ahead on points in the fight and nearly became a three division world champion on that evening.
Response to Adversity: SRR avenged his first loss to Lamotta multiple times. Return match victories over the likes of Randy Turpin, Carmen Basilio, and Gene Fullmer, also attest to Robinson’s ability to adapt and adjust in the face of losing. In the return match with Turpin, Robinson was badly cut after the 9th round. The referee gave him one more round and, guess what, that was enough. Sugar Ray closed the show in the 10th. Again, the man was never stopped due to in ring punishment in nearly 200 fights.
In short, Sugar Ray Robinson is the closest thing to a “perfect fighter” that we’ve ever seen in the ring. He is, indisputably in my opinion, the Greatest of All-Time. It’s not even close!
So that’s it! My version of the top 100 pound for pound boxers of all-time is officially in the books. Thanks to all of you who’ve taken the time to follow and comment on my series (even those of you who thought I was completely full of crap!). It’s been a great deal of fun and I’ve really enjoyed the journey! Hailing frequencies closed!
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-10-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-20-11
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-9-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-30-21
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-8-top-100-boxers-of-all-time-40-31
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-7-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-50-41
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-6-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-5-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-70-61
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-4-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-80-71
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-3-top-100-boxers-of-all-time-90-81
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-2-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-100-91
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-1-top-10-controversial-omissions
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/introduction
#10) Benny Leonard
Our top 10 starts with the: “Ghetto Wizard”, Benny Leonard, a man who many believe is the greatest Lightweight who ever lived. Leonard turned professional in November 1911 and became the dominant Lightweight of his generation, holding the title for nearly eight years. His historic reign is all the more impressive considering that the Lightweight division of those times was utterly stacked with outstanding fighters. Over the course of a 21 year career, Benny had an amazing record of 185-22-8 (70 KOs).
Leonard is among the most versatile fighters who’ve ever participated in the ring. He was an outstanding boxer with great quickness and tremendous defensive skills. In many ways, he was the prototype for modern great boxers such as Sugar Ray Robinson, Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard, Pernell Whitaker, and Floyd Mayweather Jr among others. “The Ghetto Wizard” also possessed respectable punching power as well. Not only was Benny an all-time great at Lightweight, he also more than held his own with some of the top Welterweights of his era such as hall of famers Jack Britton and Ted “Kid” Lewis.
Leonard won the Lightweight championship in May 1917 with a 9th round knockout over fellow hall of famer Freddie Welsh. He defended the title eight times and never lost it in the ring. Inclusive of his numerous non-title matches, his overall record was an incredible 82-2-1 during this span. At the urging of his mother, Benny chose to retire at the age of 28 in January 1925.
Plagued by financial difficulties, Benny returned to the ring in October of 1931 after a more than seven year layoff. He was now 35 years of age and had gained a significant amount of weight, scaling between 147 and 153 for his comeback bouts. In spite of being well past his prime, Leonard still went 19-0-1 (7 KOs) during his comeback before facing Jimmy McLarnin in October 1932. This represented Benny’s: “one fight too many”. He suffered a bad beating before the fight was stopped in the sixth round.
Leonard’s significant opponents included: Soldier Bartfield (won four), Rocky Kansas (won three), Lew Tendler (won twice), Freddie Welsh (won twice and lost), Jack Britton (won twice and lost), Johnny Dundee (won four, lost twice and drew twice), Charley White (won), Pinky Mitchell (won), Philadelphia Pal Moore (won), Johnny Kilbane (won and lost), Willie Ritchie (won and lost), Ted “Kid” Lewis (draw), Jimmy McLarnin (lost), and Joe Shugrue (lost),
Leonard was an outstanding 14-6-2 (3 KOs) against fellow IBHOF hall of famers. This includes victories over five men who appear on this top 100 list (Dundee, Kilbane, Welsh, Britton, Lewis and Tendler). Leonard’s legendary talent and quality of opposition along with his dominant reign at Lightweight earns him a place among the pantheon of boxing’s top 10 of all time.
#9) Gene Tunney
Gene Tunney may be one of the most underrated and underappreciated all-time greats ever seen in a boxing ring. From the other lists I’ve seen, I believe I’m the only one who has him in the top 10. Tunney was a champion at Heavyweight and, arguably, belongs in the top ten there. At the same time, he may have been the greatest ever seen at Light Heavyweight as well. Over a 13 year career, lasting from 1915 to 1928, Tunney compiled a professional record of 79-1-4 (48 KOs) and 1 no contest. That equates to only one loss in 85 career bouts.
Tunney was a marvelous boxer with excellent speed and defensive skills. He also possessed solid punching power, particularly as a Light Heavyweight as evidenced by his 48 knockouts in 79 wins. Gene had an iron chin, tremendous heart and excellent body punching skills as evidenced in his five bouts with all-time great Harry Greb.
Tunney’s two signature opponents were Harry Greb and Jack Dempsey. Greb and Tunney fought five times between 1922 and 1925. The Pittsburgh Windmill overwhelmed Tunney in their first match in May 1922, breaking his nose and busting up his face in a brutal 15 round decision win. Tunney adjusted in the second matchup, in February 1923, battering Greb to the body and winning by decision win. Tunney and Greb would go on to face each other three more times with Tunney winning two and the third ending in a draw. Tunney was coming into his own and was just a bit too slick and too skilled for Greb now.
Then came his two battles with Dempsey. Tunney won the Heavyweight championship with a convincing 10 round decision over Dempsey in September 1926, in a virtual shutout. In the September 1927 rematch, he dominated again with the exception of one moment. In the 7th, Dempsey floored Tunney and, to this day, many speculate that Gene was given precious extra seconds to recover while Jack was ushered off to a neutral corner. Controversy aside, Gene went on to win a convincing decision. After one more defense against Tom Heeney, Tunney retired at the age of 31. He was unique in that he was one of the very few men in boxing history who never returned to the ring and didn’t hang on for that “one fight too many” that so many legends in boxing history.
Aside from Greb and Dempsey, Tunney’s other significant opponents included: Chuck Wiggins (won twice), Leo Houck (won twice), Jimmy Delaney (won twice), Georges Carpentier (won), Jeff Smith (won), and Tommy Gibbons (won), Battling Levinsky (won) and Tommy Loughran (drew).
In the end, Tunney’s record against fellow IBHOF hall of famers was an impressive 8-1-2 (2 KOs). This includes victories over Gibbons (#45 on this list), Dempsey (#34), and Greb (still to come). Tunney was one of the most skilled and accomplished fighters ever seen in the ring and, in my view, warrants a place among the top 10 ever in boxing history.
#8) Joe Louis
Joe Louis is one of the two the most historically important boxers, along with Jack Johnson, who ever set foot in the ring. As Heavyweight champion, he achieved mainstream popularity years before Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in baseball in 1948.
Louis turned professional in September 1934, reeling off 24 consecutive victories with 20 knockouts including wins over: Primo Carnera, Max Baer, and Paulino Uzcudun. He was a quick handed with excellent boxing skills and devastating punching power. In June 1936, the 22 year old Louis faced off against former Heavyweight champion Max Schmeling, a German fighter, at Yankee Stadium. Schmeling administered a painful boxing lesson to the young Louis on that evening, tattooing Louis the entire night, before scoring a shocking 12th round knockout victory.
Louis then reeled off 7 consecutive victories, earning a title opportunity against James J. Braddock, in June 1937. The Brown Bomber survived a first round knockdown, knocking Braddock out in the 8th round. He went on to hold the title for 12 years, defending 25 times, both all-time records. Louis actively sought a rematch with Schmeling which would take place June 22, 1938 at Yankee Stadium. Given the pre-World War II escalation of tensions between the US and Germany, this was perhaps the most politically charged event in sports history. America now adopted an African American as their hero against Schmeling, who had become a symbol of Nazi Germany. The fight was both quick and painful as Louis destroyed Max in just 2:04, winning by 1st round knockout.
Louis then went on what was called the “Bum of the Month” club tour, dispatching 13 straight opponents. In June 1941, former Light Heavyweight champion Billy Conn gave the “Brown Bomber” one of the toughest tests of his career. Conn confused Joe with his boxing skills and was ahead on points after the 12th round before succumbing to Joe’s power in the 13th. Louis enlisted in the Army in 1942. His reward for serving country, a lifetime of being dogged and harassed by the IRS.
In June 1946, Louis easily dispatched Billy Conn in the 8th round of their rematch. After dispatching of Tami Mauriello in one round, the Brown Bomber would go on engage in two tough title defenses against Jersey Joe Walcott. The first was a controversial decision win over Walcott in December 1947; The second was an 11th round KO victory in the rematch in June 1948. Louis, by now almost 35 years of age, retired on March 1, 1949.
However, plagued by financial difficulties, Joe returned to the ring. He challenged newly crowned Heavyweight champion Ezzard Charles in September 1950, losing a convincing decision. In October 1951, the Brown Bomber faced young lion Rocky Marciano. On a sad night at Madison Square Garden, which marked the beginning of one legend and the end of another, Rocky dispatched of Joe in 8 rounds. Louis retired permanently after this fight.
Joe Louis had a career record of 66-3 (52 KOs). His historic championship reign and status as one of the two greatest Heavyweights who ever lived earn him a place among boxing’s top 10 fighters of all time.
#7) Sugar Ray Leonard
Some might say, how can you have a guy with only 40 fights ranked this high? I would respond that, in spite of the relative brevity of his career, SRL was truly that special.
He was the most skilled fighter seen in the ring since the days of another guy named Sugar. SRL possessed blazing hand speed and excellent footwork. He had formidable power in both hands and was a devastating finisher. Just ask guys like Davey Boy Green, Daniel Gonzalez, Andy Price, and Pete Ranzany. Leonard was a vicious body puncher and an effective in-fighter, possessing an excellent chin, an iron will, and coolness under fire.
Sugar Ray fought and defeated men such as: Willie Rodriguez, Floyd Mayweather Sr., Randy Shields, Armando Muniz, Adolf Viruet, Marcos Geraldo, Tony Chiaverini, Pete Ranzany, and Andy Price, before receiving his first title shot. In November 1979, Leonard bested undefeated WBC Welterweight champion, and fellow hall of famer, Wilfred Benitez, by a 15th round stoppage. Seven months later, in June 1980, he faced the legendary Roberto Duran. Sugar Ray exercised great courage, if not great strategy, choosing to rumble on the inside. Even though Leonard lost, he more than held his own and some believe he actually won the fight. He changed tactics choosing to box Duran in their November 1980 and dominated before Duran uttered the infamous “No mas” in round 8.
In June 1981, Sugar Ray tuned up for an impending matchup with Thomas Hearns by stopping undefeated WBA Jr. Middleweight champion Ayub Kalule in the 9th round. Then came his showdown with the undefeated Hearns for the unified Welterweight championship. Leonard fell behind on points early but eventually wore Tommy down and stopping him in the 14th round. Leonard’s career was cut short when he was diagnosed with a detached retina in May 1982 and chose to retire rather than risk further injury.
Two years later, Sugar Ray launched a comeback but rethought after a tougher than expected fight with Kevin Howard, in which he was dropped for the first time in his career. However, he changed his mind once again, coming out of retirement to challenge Middleweight champion Marvelous Marvin Hagler in April 1987. SRL entered as a heavy underdog but shocked the world by out boxing Hagler and winning a close decision victory. Prime Hagler or not, this was a spectacular accomplishment for a man who’d only been in a boxing ring once in the previous five years.
In November 1988, Sugar Ray defeated WBC Light Heavyweight champion Donny Lalonde, rallying from a 4th round knockdown to stop him in 9. This was his last truly special moment in the ring. He faced Hearns and Duran again in 1989, battling to a controversial draw with Tommy and winning a convincing decision over Duran. Leonard then suffered convincing losses to Terry Norris and Hector Camacho in comeback attempts.
Overall, Sugar Ray Leonard retired with a record of 36-3-1 (25 KOs). With world titles in five separate weight classes and victories over four members of the top 100: Benitez (#78), Hearns (#31), Hagler (#19), and Duran (#6), Sugar Ray belongs among boxing’s top 10 all-time greats.
#6) Roberto Duran
Roberto Duran and Sugar Ray Leonard are forever intertwined in the fabric of boxing history. It’s only fitting that they appear consecutively on this list. Over the course of a 33 year career, lasting from 1968 to 2001, Duran faced the best fighters of multiple generations ranging from Lightweight to Middleweight, compiling a record of 103-16 (70 KOs).
Duran turned professional at the age of 16 in February 1968. He won 28 consecutive fights leading up to his first title chance against WBA Lightweight champion Ken Buchanan in June 1972. Roberto manhandled Buchanan over the course of the fight, stopping him in the 13th round. He ruled the Lightweight division with an iron fist over the next 6+ years defending the title 12 times, 11 of these by knockout.
Duran’s biggest rival during his days at Lightweight was Esteban De Jesus. In a November 1972 non-title fight, Dejesus floored Duran in the first and went on to win a 10 round decision. Duran faced Dejesus in a rematch in March 1974. Esteban again dropped Duran in the before Roberto rallied to stop him in the 11th round. In a rubber match, in January 1978, it was actually Duran’s boxing skills that made the difference as he stopped Esteban in the 12th round.
Duran then moved up in weight to Welterweight, scoring a convincing victory over former champion and fellow hall of famer Carlos Palomino in June 1979. One year later, he challenged glamour boy Sugar Ray Leonard for the WBC Welterweight title in June 1980. In the signature performance of his career, he defeated Sugar Ray in a slugfest, winning by unanimous decision. However, in the rematch, Duran couldn’t recapture the magic and fire of five months earlier and, in one of the most bizarre endings in boxing history, said “No mas” in the 8th round.
Duran muddled through the next two years of his career, losing by decision to Wilfred Benitez for the WBC Jr. Middleweight title in January 1982 and then by decision to journeyman Kirkland Laing that September. He faced former Welterweight champion Pipino Cuevas turning back the clock and stopping him in the fourth round. Duran then faced undefeated WBA Jr. Middleweight champion Davey Moore in June 1983. He was brilliant, overwhelming and battering Moore on the way to 8th round TKO victory. Duran then faced undisputed Middleweight champion Marvelous Marvin Hagler. He lost by unanimous decision but was first challenger ever to force Marvelous Marvin to go the distance.
In June 1984, he was starched in two rounds by Thomas Hearns and this seemed to mark the end of Duran’s career. However, once again, Roberto reinvented himself, capturing the WBC Middleweight championship by decision over Iran Barkley at the age of 37 in February 1989. He would remain competitive over the next 13 years facing the likes of: Jorge Castro, Vinny Pazienza, Hector Camacho, and William Joppy, before finally retiring at the age of 50.
Duran’s dominance at Lightweight, success at higher weights, longevity, and ability to reinvent himself again and again earn him a place among boxing’s top 10 ever.
#5) Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Marcellus Clay, might be the most iconic sports figure of the 20th century. After capturing Olympic Gold, he turned professional in October 1960 and won his first 19 fights (15 by knockout), setting up a Heavyweight title match with the fearsome Sonny Liston in February 1964.
Most experts believed Sonny would destroy Cassius in just a few rounds. However, Clay shocked the world with his blistering speed and combination punching winning by 7th round TKO! In a rematch 15 months later, Clay, now known as Muhammad Ali, won by a controversial 1st round knockout. Ali would go on to defend the title 9 times. After he refused induction into the US Army based on religious grounds as a practicing Muslim, he was stripped of his Heavyweight title in 1967 and exiled from boxing over the next three years.
After comeback victories over Jerry Quarry and Oscar Bonavena in 1970, he signed to face Joe Frazier in a battle of undefeated Heavyweight champions in March 1971. This fight transcended boxing and the world of sports, more than living up to the billing as Frazier relentlessly wore down Ali over the course of 15 brutal rounds. Ali suffered his first loss but demonstrated the courage and iron will which became his trademark.
In March 1973, Ali was upset by relative unknown Ken Norton, who broke his jaw on the way to a 12 round decision victory. Six months later, Ali prevailed in a rematch against Norton by a close split decision. In January 1974, Ali gained revenge against Frazier, winning the rematch by a 12 round unanimous decision.
Then came the “Rumble in the Jungle” in October 1974. Again, Ali shocked the world, wearing down the destroyer Foreman and knocking him out in the eighth round. Seven years after he’d been stripped of the title, Muhammad Ali stood on top of the world once again as Heavyweight champion. On October 1st, 1975, Ali faced old rival Frazier in a rubber match. This looked to an easy payday for him as Smokin Joe was considered to be shot. However, Frazier brought his a-game, and the result was 14 brutal and grueling rounds. After the 14th, Joe was completely blinded resulting in a victory for Ali. The reality is both men should have retired after this fight.
Overall, Ali would defend 10 times during his second title reign, including a rubber match victory over Norton in September 1976. In February 1978, an aging 36 year old Ali, lost his title to neophyte Leon Spinks by decision. He defeated Spinks in the rematch in September 1978, capturing the Heavyweight title for the third time. Ali retired but came back two years later to face WBC Heavyweight champion Larry Holmes in October 1980. A 38 year old Ali was no match for Holmes, who beat him badly over the course of 10 sad rounds. In December 1981, Ali faced contender Trevor Berbick. Once again, he was easily defeated and this marked the end of his career.
Muhammad Ali ended his 21 year boxing career with a record of 56-5 (37 KOs). Ali the icon was also a special and unique fighter who definitely belongs among the top 5 greatest ever.
#4) Sam Langford
Sam Langford is the greatest fighter in boxing history never to win a world title. He was the best of a group of great African-American Heavyweights of the late 19th century and early 20th century who were unjustly denied a shot at the crowd. This group also included other iconic names such as Peter Jackson, Sam McVea, Joe Jeanette, and Harry Wills. It is an utter travesty that none of these men ever received a title chance. Langford was the best fighter of this group.
Sam was a diminutive 5’7 1/2’’ but was very powerfully built. He competed at Lightweight all the way up to Heavyweight over the course of his storied career, capturing the African American version of the Middleweight and Heavyweight championships. Langford possessed all the tools of a great fighter. He had fast hands, an outstanding left jab, and legendary punching power in both hands. Sam was also a terrific defensive fighter and possessed an excellent chin.
Over the course of a 24 year career, lasting from 1902 to 1926, Langford engaged in a ridiculous 316 bouts and had a record of 210-44-55 (128 KOs). In his prime, Langford weighed between 155-180 pounds and yet more than held his own against much bigger men. Among many historians, Langford ranks among the very best Light Heavyweights who ever lived, more in line with his natural weight. He also ranks highly among the greatest Heavyweight’s ever as well. Sam likely would have been a champion in both weight classes had he been given a fair opportunity.
Langford’s significant opponents included: Battling Jim Johnson (won nine and drew three), Fireman Jim Flynn (won five and lost), Joe Jeannette (won eight, lost two and drew four), Sam McVea (won seven, lost twice and drew six), Dixie Kid (won twice), Bearcat Wright (won three, lost and drew), Jeff Clark (won five, lost two and drew three), George Godfrey (won twice and drew), Joe Gans (won), Mike Schreck (won), Stanley Ketchel (won), Philadelphia Jack O’Brien (won), George “Elbows” McFadden (won), Tiger Flowers (won). Kid Norfolk (won), Young Peter Jackson (won twice, lost and drew), Jack Blackburn (won, drew three and one no contest), Gunboat Smith (won and lost), Bill Tate (won four, lost four, and drew), Joe Walcott (drew), Dave Holly (won, lost and drew twice), Jack Johnson (lost), Willie Meehan (lost), Fred Fulton (lost twice) and Harry Wills (won two, lost thirteen, and drew twice),
Langford had a ridiculous 26 victories over fellow IBHOF hall of famers. He more than held his own against the great Heavyweights of his era in spite of the fact that he was the much smaller man in many of these matchups. Only Harry Wills had his number with Harry again being much bigger and all of the bout occurring after Sam turned 30. Langford is more than deserving of a place among the pantheon of boxing’s five great ever.
#3) Henry Armstrong
How could a guy who not only held world titles in three separate weight classes but held them all at the same time not be included among the top 3 boxers ever? Henry Armstrong won world titles at Featherweight, Lightweight, and Welterweight division. This represents world championships in 3 of the 8 original divisions. No sissy titles in junior divisions for Henry Armstrong. He damn near won the Middleweight crown as well fighting to a controversial draw with champion Ceferino Garcia. Over a 14 year career, Henry amassed a professional record of 151-21-9 (101 KOs).
Homicide Hank was a whirlwind, a guy who overwhelmed opponents with relentless pressure and volume punching. He possessed awesome power, at one point, scoring 27 straight knockouts between January 1937 and March 1938. Armstrong had boundless stamina and incredible courage. Over a three year period, between 1937 and 1939, which represented his prime, he won his three world titles and compiled a ridiculous record of 52-1 (44 KOs).
Armstrong captured the Featherweight championship in October 1937 with a 6th round KO over Petey Sarron. He would go on to capture the Welterweight championship less than one year later with a convincing 15 round decision win over Barney Ross in May 1938. Hank weighed just 133 lbs. for the fight. In his very next fight, he captured the Lightweight title with a split decision victory over Lou Ambers in June 1938. He would lost the Lightweight title by a controversial unanimous decision in a rematch with Ambers in August 1939. Armstrong was penalized 5 rounds due to low blows which made the difference in the fight. Having lost the Lightweight title, Armstrong still held the Welterweight crown and would now focus his efforts there. Overall, he defended the Welterweight title an amazing 17 times before losing it to Fritzie Zivic by unanimous decision in October 1940. Zivic would also defeat him in a rematch in January 1941, by 12th round TKO. Armstrong would go on to fight another four years but never again challenge for a world title.
Armstrong significant opponents include: Aldo Spoldi (won three), Ralph Zannelli (won three), Mike Belloise (won three), Alton Black (won twice), Juan Zurita (won twice), Lew Jenkins (won twice), Midget Wolgast (won), Frankie Klick (won), Benny Bass (won), Petey Sarron (won), Barney Ross (won), Davey Day (won), Joe Ghnouly (won), Pedro Montanez (won), Paul Junior (won), Al “Bummy” Davis (won), Mike Belloise (won), Leo Rodak (won), Tippy Larkin (won), Sammy Angott (won), Baby Arizmendi (won three, lost twice), Ceferino Garcia (won, drew), Lou Ambers (won and lost), Willie Joyce (won twice and lost twice), Fritzie Zivic (won and lost twice), Beau Jack (lost), Sugar Ray Robinson (lost),
Armstrong’s record against fellow IBHOF hall of famers was an excellent 12-7. As a man who held titles in 3 of the original 8 divisions, Armstrong belongs among the top 3 in boxing history.
#2) Harry Greb
It is absolutely unfathomable that this legend and all-time great fought much of his career half blind. Greb was thumbed in his right eye in a 1921 matchup with Kid Norfolk suffering a retinal tear. He eventually lost complete vision in that eye but continued to fight on. Greb managed to get by his pre-fight physicals by memorizing the eye chart, thus keeping his compromised vision a secret from opponents.
Harry Greb’s greatness cannot be overstated and some ring historians believe that he is the greatest pound for pound fighter of all time. My personal opinion is that there was one guy who was better, but one and only one. Greb was fierce and ruthless in the ring, possessing boundless stamina and an iron chin. His swarming style was a nightmare for opponents. Greb was no mindless brawler but possessed blistering speed and excellent defensive skills to augment his relentless aggression. In one single year, 1919, Greb went 45-0, which is only 3 less wins than Floyd Mayweather has had in his entire career.
Over the course of a 13 year career, starting in 1913 and cut short by his untimely death in 1926, he engaged in 298 bouts, ending his career with a ridiculous record of 261-17-18 (48 KOs). No one in boxing history faced the breadth, depth, and quality of opposition that Harry did. Greb won the World Middleweight championship in August 1923 with a decision victory over Johnny Wilson. He defended the title four times before losing it to Tiger Flowers by a controversial decision in February 1926.
Greb’s significant opponents included: Chuck Wiggins (won eight and drew), Bob Moha (won six), Battling Levinsky (won six), Zulu Kid (won five), Jeff Smith (won six and drew), Willie (KO) Brennan (won three), Johnny Wilson (won three), Jimmy Delaney (won three), Leo Houck (won three), Al McCoy (won twice), Willie Meehan (won twice), Jack Dillon (won twice), Mike McTigue (won twice), Tommy Loughran (won four, lost and drew), Billy Miske (won twice and drew), Soldier Bartfield (won three, lost and drew), Jack Blackburn (won), Eddie McGoorty (won), Gunboat Smith (won), Jimmy Slattery (won), Mickey Walker (won), Maxie Rosenbloom (won), Lou Bogash (won), George Chip (won twice, lost and drew), Tommy Gibbons (won twice, lost twice), Mike Gibbons (won and lost), Kid Norfolk (won and lost), Mike O’Dowd (drew), Tiger Flowers (won and lost twice) and Gene Tunney (won, lost three and drew).
Greb holds victories over numerous members of the I.B.H.O.F hall of fame and arguably faced the toughest opposition in boxing history. He averaged more than 20 fights per year over the course of his career facing the iron of the Middleweight and Light Heavyweight divisions, and even held his own against some Heavyweights. Legend has it that the legendary Jack Dempsey, after getting his ass kicked by Greb in a sparring session ducked him for the remainder of his career. Harry Greb was truly special and is one of the two greatest boxers ever to step in the ring. Now for #1!
#1) Sugar Ray Robinson
Seriously, c’mon, is anyone really surprised here? There have been many difficult choices for me in determining my top 100 but this was not one of them. I’ll go back to the criteria I established at the start of this process to show why Sugar Ray Robinson is indisputably the greatest boxer of all-time
Dominance: Robinson went 128-1-2 (84 KOs) over the first 11 years of his boxing career. He was unbeatable at Welterweight, the only loss during that period coming against Middleweight Jake Lamotta, who he would go on to defeat five times. SRR is indisputably the greatest Welterweight who ever lived and many regard him as the greatest Middleweight as well. He was a 5 time champion at Middleweight, with many outstanding victories after he turned 30. Robinson was arguably the fighter of the decade for both the 1940’s and 1950’s
Quality of Opposition: Here’s the lineup of outstanding fighters SRR faced over the course of his legendary 25 year career: Jake Lamotta (won five and lost), Izzy Jannazzo (won four), Bobo Olson (won four), Sammy Angott (won three), Marty Servo (won twice), Fritzie Zivic (won twice), California Jackie Wilson (won twice), Tommy Bell (won twice), Kid Gavilan (won twice), Joe Ghnouly (won), Ralph Zanelli (won), Henry Armstrong (won), Georgie Abrams (won), Steve Belloise (won), Charley Fusari (won), Holly Mims (won), Rocky Graziano (won), Cyrille Delannoit (won), Randy Turpin (won and lost), Carmen Basilio (won and lost), Denny Moyer (won and lost),Gene Fullmer (won, lost twice, drew), Joey Maxim (lost), Ralph “Tiger” Jones (lost), Joey Archer (lost). Joey Giardello (lost) and Paul Pender (lost twice),
SRR’s quality of opposition was legendary. Only, Harry Greb’s resume is more impressive in that regard.
Talent/Skills: Sugar Ray Robinson was long and lean and literally could do everything in the ring. He possessed the grace and fluidity of a Muhammad Ali, the hand speed and blistering combination punching of a Sugar Ray Leonard, and the punching power of a Thomas Hearns. Sugar Ray Robinson was also extremely durable, possessing an outstanding chin. He could beat you in more ways than another fighter in boxing history.
Longevity: Sugar Ray Robinson’s career lasted an amazing 25 years, lasting from 1940 to 1965. His professional record was 173-19-6 (108 KOs). 18 of the 19 losses and 4 of the six draws when he was past his prime. The only stoppage of Sugar’s Ray’s career was the result of heat stroke, not the punches of another man. He collapsed in the 13th round due to searing 104 degree heat when he challenged Joey Maxim for the Light Heavyweight crown in June 1952. Robinson was well ahead on points in the fight and nearly became a three division world champion on that evening.
Response to Adversity: SRR avenged his first loss to Lamotta multiple times. Return match victories over the likes of Randy Turpin, Carmen Basilio, and Gene Fullmer, also attest to Robinson’s ability to adapt and adjust in the face of losing. In the return match with Turpin, Robinson was badly cut after the 9th round. The referee gave him one more round and, guess what, that was enough. Sugar Ray closed the show in the 10th. Again, the man was never stopped due to in ring punishment in nearly 200 fights.
In short, Sugar Ray Robinson is the closest thing to a “perfect fighter” that we’ve ever seen in the ring. He is, indisputably in my opinion, the Greatest of All-Time. It’s not even close!
So that’s it! My version of the top 100 pound for pound boxers of all-time is officially in the books. Thanks to all of you who’ve taken the time to follow and comment on my series (even those of you who thought I was completely full of crap!). It’s been a great deal of fun and I’ve really enjoyed the journey! Hailing frequencies closed!
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-10-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-20-11
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-9-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-30-21
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-8-top-100-boxers-of-all-time-40-31
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-7-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-50-41
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-6-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-5-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-70-61
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-4-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-80-71
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-3-top-100-boxers-of-all-time-90-81
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-2-top-100-pound-for-pound-boxers-of-all-time-100-91
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/part-1-top-10-controversial-omissions
http://mythicalboxing.weebly.com/introduction