El Radar, the great Wilfred Benitez at 23 years of age and in the weight that he said "It's his weight" just finished from winning against the great Roberto Duran. It was one of his finest performances of his career.
Is the sky the limit for him? No. If he trains hard and seriously, there's no limit with his talent of where he could go.
What's next for the young champion? First, he accommodated himself to a great and deserving vacation. He is in the prime of his young life. On top of the world you may say.
After vacation is over, his management team was looking for another mega payday. He paid his dues. It's "Getting Paid Time"!
Now, it's time for a multi-million dollar payday for a long awaited rematch with the only man that has ever beaten him in 44 bouts so far: the great Sugar Ray Leonard.
A mega-million payday with Undisputed World Middleweight Champion Marvelous Marvin Hagler of Brockton, MA is not out of the question, either. It would be a very lucrative match for both fighters. It would be an historical fight. Benitez trying to become the only man to win 4 world titles in 4 different weight classes against a hungry and extraordinary champion that is still looking for world wide recognition.
The question and the problem was: Why these two fights were not materialized? What happened?
Well, Leonard, the Undisputed World Welterweight Champion, had a title defense against Bruce Finch in February 15, 1982. Finch was dispatched as quickly as you can read this. Then, contender Roger Stafford was next in line. He was the number one contender for Leonard's crown in May.
What happened? One of the saddest moments in boxing history. Leonard had to be operated for a detached retina and the fight and his career, for now, was off.
Hagler was supposed to defend his middleweight crown against the feared Thomas "The Hitman" Hearns of Detroit, MI in May of 1982. Hearns postponed the fight because of a hand injury.
So, the two fights for Benitez to become a wealthier man did not materialized. The question for a Hagler fight was, why there wasn't a concrete negotiation for a fight? Who's fault is it? Was it Hagler's fault? Or Benitez?
While Hagler spent the year 1982 defending his crown against no-name contenders, like American William "Caveman" Lee and Fulgencio Obelmejias of Venezuela, Benitez didn't had a fight almost the whole year! Inactivity could cost him.
Maybe Benitez's management team didn't want a fight with Hagler. Or maybe his management team didn't know how to manage him. Is it his manager Jim Jacobs' fault that Benitez didn't get none of those two lucrative matches? What really happened?
But this boggles the mind of many that Benitez's time at the top of the super welterweight division didn't had the time to take the opportunity to take advantage of making more money. I mean, serious money! Millions of dollars went down the drain as time in the year 1982 passed by.
The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Great post Elmer. Keep it coming...
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Hagler would have welcomed the fight. He feasted on guys moving up in weight. He didn't like counter-punchers but I don't think Benitez has enough to keep Marvin off him.
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
I believe at that stage of his career that Wilfred Benitez would have given Marvelous a lot of problems. He was slick as hell. Especially, in his fight with Roberto Duran, he looked fantastic.
Would Marvelous' mind said to him to avoid him? And why? That would have been a very lucrative match. At least $3 million dollars for each fighter. Maybe, Benitez, although he beat Duran, wasn't as valuable as Duran, Thomas Hearns and Sugar Ray Leonard. Because Marvelous biggest target at the time was Leonard. He settled with Hearns, but Hearns' had a hand injury. And Duran? Well, Duran was considered washed up and out of contention in 1982. Worse when Duran lost to Kirkland Laying in July.
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Wilfred Benitez originally was supposed to fight Thomas "The Hitman" Hearns in February of 1981 for Hearns' WBA World Welterweight Crown. The fight was called off when American promoter Harold Smith got caught and charged of a $21.3 million dollar embezzlement from the Wells Fargo Bank. So, the fight was called off and Benitez went and jumped back to super welterweight to challenge WBC World Super Welterweight Champion Maurice Hope of England. Benitez won the crown by a -round knockout in May 23, 1981 and became the 6th man to win three world championships in 3 weight classes.
After beating the great Roberto Duran in a magnificent performance, El Radar, Wilfred Benitez of Puerto Rico took off almost a year to fight again. The question is or was.....why?
The fight that he deeply wanted, against Sugar Ray Leonard went out of the window when Leonard in November 1982 did a retirement gala in a boxing ring in Baltimore, MD. So about a fight or rematch with Leonard went out of the window.
The second best option for a multi-million dollar payday was against Marvelous Marvin Hagler for Hagler's Undisputed World Middleweight Championship. This fight looked like a natural. A boxing master trying to win and be the first man to win his fourth world title in a fourth weight class against a hungry and sensational champion that was trying to get his mark in boxing, and, of course, to get paid. Why it didn't happened? I ain't got no idea. But, why Benitez took so long to fight again? That's the kind of inactivity that a boxer, in top of his peak prowess, should not do. Benitez hated the word "discipline" and loved the words "women, rumba, drugs and night life". He thought that he didn't have to train that hard anymore. He is the so called "Bible of Boxing". He knows it all.
The third and least option to make the big bucks was a fight against the great Thomas "The Hitman" Hearns of Detroit, MI in December 1982. Hearns was supposed to fight Marvelous in May 1982, but the fight didn't materialized.
The very least of Benitez's options, was to fight WBA World Jr Middleweight Champion Davey Moore of Bronx, NY for a world title unification. Moore was 23 years old, already beaten former champion Ayub Kalule of Uganda in 10 rounds. Si, a fight between a puncher/slugger and a master boxer to prove who is the best of the super welterweight division is a natural, right? Mmmm. Let's think about it.
Or just fight and make a title defense, damn it! Benitez needed activity and not inactivity. That's the very least of his options in 1982.
At least, Hearns, after losing to Leonard in September of 1981 Super Fight was busier than Benitez. After the Leonard loss, Hearns had a three-fight win streak. In his last fight before facing Benitez, Hearns stopped top contender, American Jeff McCracken in 8 rounds in July 1982.
Both, Benitez and Hearns, had a great rival in common. Both of them gave Leonard hell, but lost in the last rounds by knockout. Both were thinking about revenge against the Media Darling. It was their ONLY LOSS of their careers so far. But, first, they got to fight each other. A Leonard rematch for both of them is a pipe dream for now. Leonard, announced retirement in November.
The Benitez vs Hearns title fight took place on December 3, 1982 at the famous New Orleans Super Dome. There was another big fight in that event also. Wilfredo Gomez, Benitez's countryman and WBC World Super Bantamweight Champion, was defending his crown against WBC World Bantamweight Champion Lupe Pintor of Mexico.
So the Island of Puerto Rico had their top two best fighters at the time, defending their crowns. It was a big expectative event for the whole island. The Puerto Rican fans called the event as "The Night of the Wilfredos" National pride was on the line. Especially, for the Gomez vs Pintor fight which is a big rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico. But, the main event was Benitez vs Hearns.
Gomez did his part in not letting his countrymen down this time by stopping Pintor in a 14-round slugfest and kept his crown for the 17th time. It was probably, the greatest Super Bantamweight fight of all-time, at least in the 20th Century.
Benitez before the fight introductions did the same staredown to Hearns just like he did with Leonard 3 years later. He was trying to intimidate Hearns. But, I don't think that anybody would ever intimidate The Hitman. He is the intimidator. Always been with that 6'1 tall height and 80" inch long reach with a devastating power, especially with the right hand.
Round one began and both fighters started cautiously measuring and studying their opponent. It was from the get go a scientific fight, just like Leonard vs Benitez fight in 1979.
Hearns' long left jab was making Benitez uncomfortable from the beginning. It was a Cobra-style fast jab. Beautiful to watch. Hearns was taking control the first three rounds. Benitez could not do anything about it. He couldn't lure Hearns to the ropes, where he is comfortable as a master counter puncher.
By round 4, the referee Octavio Meyran of Mexico deducted Hearns a point for hooking Benitez's head or holding behind the neck. Ain't that a bitch! Some guys could do it, but I am not saying no names!
In round 5, Hearns dropped Benitez with a right hand. Benitez's glove touch the canvas and the referee gave him an 8-count.
In round 6, The Hitman shook El Radar again with a timely right cross. Benitez was hurt, but the bell sounded. A clear round for Hearns.
In my view by watching the fight, Benitez, up to round 7, is behind. So he got to put it together or his title would change hands. Benitez connected beautiful right hands at Hearns' chin, but Hearns' took those shots well. Benitez did great in rounds 7, 8 and 9.
In round 9, referee Meyran erroneously called a knockdown on Hearns when it clearly was seen that Hearns lost his balance. There was not a significant, but grazing punch by Benitez. Hearns underservedly received an eight-count.
But, Hearns did not let the knockdown deter him. He kept boxing using his left jab perfectly like always and as planned. That's comes to show the MATURITY of Hearns since losing to Leonard. Also, his legs were stronger and sturdier than when he was at welterweight. And he looked stronger at 154lbs. If his legs BETRAYED HIM against Sugar Ray, not this time.
Hearns only used the left jab most of the fight after the 9th round and won 5 of the last 6 rounds in my view. Hearns, a well known big puncher and banger in the boxing world, showed versatility by outboxing one of boxing's greatest masters. He could box! He doesn't have that long reach for nothing!
And nothing that Benitez could do was the word. He couldn't do nothing about Hearns' long left jab. And he loses his WBC World Super Welterweight crown against Hearns by majority decision. Majority decision? Yes! Read as is! But, in my view and lots observers' view, the decision should have been unanimous.
The new WBC Super Welterweight Champion of the World! Thomas "The Hitman" Hearns!
The scoring of the fight was the following:
Judge Dick Young scored it 146-137, for Hearns
Judge Tony Castellani scored it 144-139, for Hearns
And Judge Lou Filippo scored it 142-142, a draw? What kind of fight he was watching? Benitez at my estimation, didn't do much to retain the title in his score card. He was outboxed! Hearns outboxed the boxer in which became one of his most underrated wins of his Hall of Fame career. All judges were American.
At 24, Hearns is on top of the world again by winning his second world title. He improves to 36-1, with 34 knockouts.
Benitez, also 24, losses only for the second time in his career. Still got a lot left to prove. Maybe THE INACTIVITY did him this time around. It's Something that he was well known for and finally caught with him. He drops to 43-2-1 with 28KOs.
While seeing Hearns beautifully using his long left jab word has it why he didn't threw his famous right hand like he did in the early rounds of the fight. He broke again his right hand. So, he had to stick to plan B, which was using his boxing skills.
As for Benitez, it was the last time that he ever fought a world title fight. And also, it was the last time that he fought at a high level. After losing to Hearns, Benitez mysteriously and shockingly went to a steady decline at just age of 24.
After beating the great Roberto Duran in a magnificent performance, El Radar, Wilfred Benitez of Puerto Rico took off almost a year to fight again. The question is or was.....why?
The fight that he deeply wanted, against Sugar Ray Leonard went out of the window when Leonard in November 1982 did a retirement gala in a boxing ring in Baltimore, MD. So about a fight or rematch with Leonard went out of the window.
The second best option for a multi-million dollar payday was against Marvelous Marvin Hagler for Hagler's Undisputed World Middleweight Championship. This fight looked like a natural. A boxing master trying to win and be the first man to win his fourth world title in a fourth weight class against a hungry and sensational champion that was trying to get his mark in boxing, and, of course, to get paid. Why it didn't happened? I ain't got no idea. But, why Benitez took so long to fight again? That's the kind of inactivity that a boxer, in top of his peak prowess, should not do. Benitez hated the word "discipline" and loved the words "women, rumba, drugs and night life". He thought that he didn't have to train that hard anymore. He is the so called "Bible of Boxing". He knows it all.
The third and least option to make the big bucks was a fight against the great Thomas "The Hitman" Hearns of Detroit, MI in December 1982. Hearns was supposed to fight Marvelous in May 1982, but the fight didn't materialized.
The very least of Benitez's options, was to fight WBA World Jr Middleweight Champion Davey Moore of Bronx, NY for a world title unification. Moore was 23 years old, already beaten former champion Ayub Kalule of Uganda in 10 rounds. Si, a fight between a puncher/slugger and a master boxer to prove who is the best of the super welterweight division is a natural, right? Mmmm. Let's think about it.
Or just fight and make a title defense, damn it! Benitez needed activity and not inactivity. That's the very least of his options in 1982.
At least, Hearns, after losing to Leonard in September of 1981 Super Fight was busier than Benitez. After the Leonard loss, Hearns had a three-fight win streak. In his last fight before facing Benitez, Hearns stopped top contender, American Jeff McCracken in 8 rounds in July 1982.
Both, Benitez and Hearns, had a great rival in common. Both of them gave Leonard hell, but lost in the last rounds by knockout. Both were thinking about revenge against the Media Darling. It was their ONLY LOSS of their careers so far. But, first, they got to fight each other. A Leonard rematch for both of them is a pipe dream for now. Leonard, announced retirement in November.
The Benitez vs Hearns title fight took place on December 3, 1982 at the famous New Orleans Super Dome. There was another big fight in that event also. Wilfredo Gomez, Benitez's countryman and WBC World Super Bantamweight Champion, was defending his crown against WBC World Bantamweight Champion Lupe Pintor of Mexico.
So the Island of Puerto Rico had their top two best fighters at the time, defending their crowns. It was a big expectative event for the whole island. The Puerto Rican fans called the event as "The Night of the Wilfredos" National pride was on the line. Especially, for the Gomez vs Pintor fight which is a big rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico. But, the main event was Benitez vs Hearns.
Gomez did his part in not letting his countrymen down this time by stopping Pintor in a 14-round slugfest and kept his crown for the 17th time. It was probably, the greatest Super Bantamweight fight of all-time, at least in the 20th Century.
Benitez before the fight introductions did the same staredown to Hearns just like he did with Leonard 3 years later. He was trying to intimidate Hearns. But, I don't think that anybody would ever intimidate The Hitman. He is the intimidator. Always been with that 6'1 tall height and 80" inch long reach with a devastating power, especially with the right hand.
Round one began and both fighters started cautiously measuring and studying their opponent. It was from the get go a scientific fight, just like Leonard vs Benitez fight in 1979.
Hearns' long left jab was making Benitez uncomfortable from the beginning. It was a Cobra-style fast jab. Beautiful to watch. Hearns was taking control the first three rounds. Benitez could not do anything about it. He couldn't lure Hearns to the ropes, where he is comfortable as a master counter puncher.
By round 4, the referee Octavio Meyran of Mexico deducted Hearns a point for hooking Benitez's head or holding behind the neck. Ain't that a bitch! Some guys could do it, but I am not saying no names!
In round 5, Hearns dropped Benitez with a right hand. Benitez's glove touch the canvas and the referee gave him an 8-count.
In round 6, The Hitman shook El Radar again with a timely right cross. Benitez was hurt, but the bell sounded. A clear round for Hearns.
In my view by watching the fight, Benitez, up to round 7, is behind. So he got to put it together or his title would change hands. Benitez connected beautiful right hands at Hearns' chin, but Hearns' took those shots well. Benitez did great in rounds 7, 8 and 9.
In round 9, referee Meyran erroneously called a knockdown on Hearns when it clearly was seen that Hearns lost his balance. There was not a significant, but grazing punch by Benitez. Hearns underservedly received an eight-count.
But, Hearns did not let the knockdown deter him. He kept boxing using his left jab perfectly like always and as planned. That's comes to show the MATURITY of Hearns since losing to Leonard. Also, his legs were stronger and sturdier than when he was at welterweight. And he looked stronger at 154lbs. If his legs BETRAYED HIM against Sugar Ray, not this time.
Hearns only used the left jab most of the fight after the 9th round and won 5 of the last 6 rounds in my view. Hearns, a well known big puncher and banger in the boxing world, showed versatility by outboxing one of boxing's greatest masters. He could box! He doesn't have that long reach for nothing!
And nothing that Benitez could do was the word. He couldn't do nothing about Hearns' long left jab. And he loses his WBC World Super Welterweight crown against Hearns by majority decision. Majority decision? Yes! Read as is! But, in my view and lots observers' view, the decision should have been unanimous.
The new WBC Super Welterweight Champion of the World! Thomas "The Hitman" Hearns!
The scoring of the fight was the following:
Judge Dick Young scored it 146-137, for Hearns
Judge Tony Castellani scored it 144-139, for Hearns
And Judge Lou Filippo scored it 142-142, a draw? What kind of fight he was watching? Benitez at my estimation, didn't do much to retain the title in his score card. He was outboxed! Hearns outboxed the boxer in which became one of his most underrated wins of his Hall of Fame career. All judges were American.
At 24, Hearns is on top of the world again by winning his second world title. He improves to 36-1, with 34 knockouts.
Benitez, also 24, losses only for the second time in his career. Still got a lot left to prove. Maybe THE INACTIVITY did him this time around. It's Something that he was well known for and finally caught with him. He drops to 43-2-1 with 28KOs.
While seeing Hearns beautifully using his long left jab word has it why he didn't threw his famous right hand like he did in the early rounds of the fight. He broke again his right hand. So, he had to stick to plan B, which was using his boxing skills.
As for Benitez, it was the last time that he ever fought a world title fight. And also, it was the last time that he fought at a high level. After losing to Hearns, Benitez mysteriously and shockingly went to a steady decline at just age of 24.
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Hagler would have slaughtered Benitez at MW. Have any doubts, just look at how limited but rugged Mustafa Hamsho just manhandled him. At 160 Benitez didn't carry the kind of much that gets you respect.
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
But, by the time Wilfred Benitez fought Mustapha Hamsho, he looked shot and done. It's unbelievable that he went down so fast like that.
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
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- Joined: 02 Feb 2003, 03:50
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
El Radar after he lost his title belt to the great Thomas "The Hitman" Hearns at only age 24, went to a downturn spiral.
How can a guy so talented, all of the sudden is damaged goods at young age? And so quickly?
Wilfred Benitez, the former great champion started the year 1983 with a so-so decision win against an unknown Chicano named Tony Cerda of Los Angeles. That was May 18, 1983 in Las Vegas.
This time, Benitez is campaigning at middleweight to get a fourth world title in 4 different weight classes to be the first man ever to do so.
On his next fight, in July 16, Benitez fought top middleweight contender Mustapha Hamsho of Syria. A rough and tough fighter, Hamsho was making his residence in Brooklyn, NY.
Hamsho already lost by knockout in a world title try against the great champion Marvelous Marvin Hagler in 1981. This fight with Benitez was a crossroad fight to see who will be Marvelous' next challenger.
The fight was anything but. Benitez didn't bring nothing to the table. In round one, he almost got knocked out, but his experience and heart didn't give him in.
The fight was at Dunes Hotel in Las Vegas, NV.
Unbelievable at least, Benitez just won one round in this elimination bout scheduled for 12 rounds. He didn't do anything to show that he was still a top boxer. That day began to show that he wasn't. He doesn't have it!
For 12 unmerciful rounds, Hamsho clubbered Benitez on the ropes. At the style of fighting that Benitez loved. Hamsho proved too strong and too imposing for him by using his superior upper body strength. Benitez couldn't do nothing with it. Plus, the pressure that Hamsho put on him was surreal.
It wasn't much of a fight. Hamsho was clearly the winner by unanimous decision and got a new shot to fight for the world middleweight crown held by Marvelous.
For Benitez, it was another setback to get by on track. It seems that he can't compete with the 160 pounders. They're too strong for him. If he really wants to become a four division world titlist and be the first one to do it, he better get back to the gym, train hard and reinvent himself. Because so far, he doesn't have it. He got to get serious than seriously if he wants to become world champion again.
Benitez drops to 44-3-1, with 28KOs. It was the first time that he loses to someone that wasn't a top big time fighter. The first time that he loses to a non-world champion.
Hamsho is back and gave a great performance. He is now with a record of 37-2-2, with 22KOs and another shot at Marvelous Marvin Hagler's title.
How can a guy so talented, all of the sudden is damaged goods at young age? And so quickly?
Wilfred Benitez, the former great champion started the year 1983 with a so-so decision win against an unknown Chicano named Tony Cerda of Los Angeles. That was May 18, 1983 in Las Vegas.
This time, Benitez is campaigning at middleweight to get a fourth world title in 4 different weight classes to be the first man ever to do so.
On his next fight, in July 16, Benitez fought top middleweight contender Mustapha Hamsho of Syria. A rough and tough fighter, Hamsho was making his residence in Brooklyn, NY.
Hamsho already lost by knockout in a world title try against the great champion Marvelous Marvin Hagler in 1981. This fight with Benitez was a crossroad fight to see who will be Marvelous' next challenger.
The fight was anything but. Benitez didn't bring nothing to the table. In round one, he almost got knocked out, but his experience and heart didn't give him in.
The fight was at Dunes Hotel in Las Vegas, NV.
Unbelievable at least, Benitez just won one round in this elimination bout scheduled for 12 rounds. He didn't do anything to show that he was still a top boxer. That day began to show that he wasn't. He doesn't have it!
For 12 unmerciful rounds, Hamsho clubbered Benitez on the ropes. At the style of fighting that Benitez loved. Hamsho proved too strong and too imposing for him by using his superior upper body strength. Benitez couldn't do nothing with it. Plus, the pressure that Hamsho put on him was surreal.
It wasn't much of a fight. Hamsho was clearly the winner by unanimous decision and got a new shot to fight for the world middleweight crown held by Marvelous.
For Benitez, it was another setback to get by on track. It seems that he can't compete with the 160 pounders. They're too strong for him. If he really wants to become a four division world titlist and be the first one to do it, he better get back to the gym, train hard and reinvent himself. Because so far, he doesn't have it. He got to get serious than seriously if he wants to become world champion again.
Benitez drops to 44-3-1, with 28KOs. It was the first time that he loses to someone that wasn't a top big time fighter. The first time that he loses to a non-world champion.
Hamsho is back and gave a great performance. He is now with a record of 37-2-2, with 22KOs and another shot at Marvelous Marvin Hagler's title.
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
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- Joined: 02 Feb 2003, 03:50
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Seven months has passed and the great Wilfred Benitez is nowhere to be seen in a boxing match nor less in a boxing gym.
In February 1984, after losing to middleweight contender Mustapha Hamsho of Syria by decision in July 1983, Benitez had his first fight.
The question was, why if he wants to get back to his glory days, he got another long gap of time wasted? What is in his mind? To fight for just to fight, or fight to get back to glory again?
He had a win against an unknown name Stacey McSwain. Benitez won by unanimous decision.
But, in his next fight, on July 14, 1984 in Monte Carlo, Benitez had another crossroad fight with former WBA World Jr Middleweight Champion Davey Moore of the Bronx, NY. Moore had been dethroned badly by a massacre by the great Roberto Duran a year earlier, and was also making a comeback for redemption and become champion again in his young life.
The winner might be promised to another title shot. It was a crossroad fight that Benitez must win to have his title hopes contentions alive. If he wins, he could challenge Marvelous Marvin Hagler for the World Middleweight Championship. Or challenge the great Thomas Hearns for a rematch for the WBC World Super Welterweight Championship. He got options.
But, this fight proved another disaster for the legendary Puerto Rican. If you think that his lackluster fight with Hamsho was a disaster, this fight fight was a total one sided destruction. Benitez went down by Moore's right and that was the beginning of it. Lefts and rights were pouring until the master's head off the ropes. Benitez wasn't even countering but defending himself on the ropes.
At one moment, he like had cramps on of his legs. Like something wasn't right. Did he prepared himself for this fight or not? How you dominated Duran, and then Duran kicked Moore's ass, and now Moore is kicking your ass? How does that works?
The referee stopped the fight in round 2. And deservedly so. El Radar didn't do anything to indicate that he was fight-ready. He looked miles backwards than the master that dominated Duran two years earlier. It was the second time that he loses by knockout.
Benitez drops to 45-4-1, with 28KOs. Moore, 25, with this win, now has another shot to a title. Would he?
In February 1984, after losing to middleweight contender Mustapha Hamsho of Syria by decision in July 1983, Benitez had his first fight.
The question was, why if he wants to get back to his glory days, he got another long gap of time wasted? What is in his mind? To fight for just to fight, or fight to get back to glory again?
He had a win against an unknown name Stacey McSwain. Benitez won by unanimous decision.
But, in his next fight, on July 14, 1984 in Monte Carlo, Benitez had another crossroad fight with former WBA World Jr Middleweight Champion Davey Moore of the Bronx, NY. Moore had been dethroned badly by a massacre by the great Roberto Duran a year earlier, and was also making a comeback for redemption and become champion again in his young life.
The winner might be promised to another title shot. It was a crossroad fight that Benitez must win to have his title hopes contentions alive. If he wins, he could challenge Marvelous Marvin Hagler for the World Middleweight Championship. Or challenge the great Thomas Hearns for a rematch for the WBC World Super Welterweight Championship. He got options.
But, this fight proved another disaster for the legendary Puerto Rican. If you think that his lackluster fight with Hamsho was a disaster, this fight fight was a total one sided destruction. Benitez went down by Moore's right and that was the beginning of it. Lefts and rights were pouring until the master's head off the ropes. Benitez wasn't even countering but defending himself on the ropes.
At one moment, he like had cramps on of his legs. Like something wasn't right. Did he prepared himself for this fight or not? How you dominated Duran, and then Duran kicked Moore's ass, and now Moore is kicking your ass? How does that works?
The referee stopped the fight in round 2. And deservedly so. El Radar didn't do anything to indicate that he was fight-ready. He looked miles backwards than the master that dominated Duran two years earlier. It was the second time that he loses by knockout.
Benitez drops to 45-4-1, with 28KOs. Moore, 25, with this win, now has another shot to a title. Would he?
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
- Posts: 15652
- Joined: 02 Feb 2003, 03:50
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
The year 1985 was a good one for El Radar, Wilfred Benitez. The former three-time World Champion in 3 different weight classes won the 3 fights that he had in 1985. Is he taking the fight game seriously now? You better believe it.
He beat Mauricio Bravo in March by knockout in two. Then, in July stops Danny Chapman in seven. And then, in August, wins by unanimous decision against Kevin Moley.
Were they household names? Not really. But, he got to start winning somewhat or someway to get his confidence back. One day at a time. One fight at a time. Just keep winning, and you will get back the attention. And a title shot.
Well, six months later, on February 15, 1986 in Montreal, Canada, he got the attention of a young and rising undefeated contender named Matthew Hilton of Montreal.
Hilton, was only 20 years old with 19 fights won, 16 won by knockout. And he got plenty of punching power and stamina and was very strong. Can Benitez handle him?
At that age of 20, Benitez was already a two-time World champion in 2 weight divisions. Hilton wasn't even a professional boxer yet. Hilton was only 13.
Hilton, like Benitez, was a prodigy. His father, Davey Hilton, Sr, was a former professional boxer. Matthew had also four other brothers fighting professionally. But, it seems that he was the best of the Hilton bunch. At least, he looked the most promising.
The fight was set at the Paul Sauve Arena in Montreal. It was jammed packed. Did Benitez, like Antonio Cervantes and Carlos Palomino made the same mistake in going to someone's home turf to fight Hilton? Was he getting the big money that he hasn't got in a long time? I don't know. But, to me, if I were in his corner, I would have told him not to take that fight. Let alone go to the young shark's home turf to fight him. I would have told Benitez to fight him somewhere else than Montreal. He should have fought him in Puerto Rico or in a neutral site.
But, at 27, Benitez had all the experience necessary at least to outmaneuver the young promising prospect.
Well, the fight was another disaster for the legendary champion. In the very first round, he got a wicked left hook shot to the ribs, and Benitez in pain, went down.
And it went all downhill from thence. Benitez didn't had the power, nor the strength nor nothing to cause the young shark to give some respect. No pep in his punches. He even looked very disoriented and disorganized. Was the crowd getting to his concentration? It was the first time in his illustrious career that he ever faced the crowd against him.
Benitez was getting an ass whupping from the very first round. Something very sad to see. How can a master became old at a very young age? At 27 years of age, lots of boxers are still in the primes of their careers. This is a young man's sport. How come then, at 27, Benitez looked shot?
I only saw Benitez win two rounds. And that's probably a gift. In round 5, I saw him win by a 10-8 score, not because he dropped Hilton down, which he didn't, but because Hilton hit Benitez low. That was it. Almost after that, it was all Hilton's.
In round 9, Benitez needs a knockout to win this fight. He doesn't have it. He didn't had it from jump street. He didn't had the power nor strength to keep this magnificent young shark off from him. Hilton had him on the ropes and Benitez as usual, was defending himself off it. A wicked left hook shot to the ribs then followed by another left hook to the chin and Benitez went down. It was one of the most crucifying knockouts ever recorded on film. What a shot! Benitez went down like a pine tree and the referee counted to 1000. He is not getting up. The winner and still undefeated rising contender, Matthew Hilton!
This was it for Benitez. Should he retire? Yes, and quickly. He doesn't have it to keep competing at a high level. It's a different scene of four years back of how magnificent and spectacular he was to see him get clobbered by a world class boxer. This should be the end of his great career. Forget about a fourth world title at middleweight. That's it! It's over! It's really over!
Benitez drops to 49-5-1 with 30KOs. Hilton, the following year, becomes world champion at super welterweight division.
In 1987, Benitez travels to Buenos Aires, Argentina for a fight with local Carlos Herrera. Benitez lost by Unanimous decision. After the fight, the wicked promoter didn't pay him and Benitez spent a year in Buenos Aires, wandering around homeless. What happened? Why the Puerto Rican government didn't looked for him in times of trouble? I don't know. But, I believe that the government did a diservice to this great champion that gave the Island of Puerto Rico many thrills. He is one of Puerto Rico's most prestigious athletes. One of the top 100 greatest boxers and defensive wizards of all-time.
To see him now, it gives pain and sadness. He could barely speak and is a vegetable. He is taken care in Chicago, IL in a nursing home and now, the Puerto Rican government do everything in their power to help him with a monthly pension. The sport of boxing could be cruel and so brutal.
Benitez retired in 1990 with a record of 53-8-1, with 31KOs.
He beat Mauricio Bravo in March by knockout in two. Then, in July stops Danny Chapman in seven. And then, in August, wins by unanimous decision against Kevin Moley.
Were they household names? Not really. But, he got to start winning somewhat or someway to get his confidence back. One day at a time. One fight at a time. Just keep winning, and you will get back the attention. And a title shot.
Well, six months later, on February 15, 1986 in Montreal, Canada, he got the attention of a young and rising undefeated contender named Matthew Hilton of Montreal.
Hilton, was only 20 years old with 19 fights won, 16 won by knockout. And he got plenty of punching power and stamina and was very strong. Can Benitez handle him?
At that age of 20, Benitez was already a two-time World champion in 2 weight divisions. Hilton wasn't even a professional boxer yet. Hilton was only 13.
Hilton, like Benitez, was a prodigy. His father, Davey Hilton, Sr, was a former professional boxer. Matthew had also four other brothers fighting professionally. But, it seems that he was the best of the Hilton bunch. At least, he looked the most promising.
The fight was set at the Paul Sauve Arena in Montreal. It was jammed packed. Did Benitez, like Antonio Cervantes and Carlos Palomino made the same mistake in going to someone's home turf to fight Hilton? Was he getting the big money that he hasn't got in a long time? I don't know. But, to me, if I were in his corner, I would have told him not to take that fight. Let alone go to the young shark's home turf to fight him. I would have told Benitez to fight him somewhere else than Montreal. He should have fought him in Puerto Rico or in a neutral site.
But, at 27, Benitez had all the experience necessary at least to outmaneuver the young promising prospect.
Well, the fight was another disaster for the legendary champion. In the very first round, he got a wicked left hook shot to the ribs, and Benitez in pain, went down.
And it went all downhill from thence. Benitez didn't had the power, nor the strength nor nothing to cause the young shark to give some respect. No pep in his punches. He even looked very disoriented and disorganized. Was the crowd getting to his concentration? It was the first time in his illustrious career that he ever faced the crowd against him.
Benitez was getting an ass whupping from the very first round. Something very sad to see. How can a master became old at a very young age? At 27 years of age, lots of boxers are still in the primes of their careers. This is a young man's sport. How come then, at 27, Benitez looked shot?
I only saw Benitez win two rounds. And that's probably a gift. In round 5, I saw him win by a 10-8 score, not because he dropped Hilton down, which he didn't, but because Hilton hit Benitez low. That was it. Almost after that, it was all Hilton's.
In round 9, Benitez needs a knockout to win this fight. He doesn't have it. He didn't had it from jump street. He didn't had the power nor strength to keep this magnificent young shark off from him. Hilton had him on the ropes and Benitez as usual, was defending himself off it. A wicked left hook shot to the ribs then followed by another left hook to the chin and Benitez went down. It was one of the most crucifying knockouts ever recorded on film. What a shot! Benitez went down like a pine tree and the referee counted to 1000. He is not getting up. The winner and still undefeated rising contender, Matthew Hilton!
This was it for Benitez. Should he retire? Yes, and quickly. He doesn't have it to keep competing at a high level. It's a different scene of four years back of how magnificent and spectacular he was to see him get clobbered by a world class boxer. This should be the end of his great career. Forget about a fourth world title at middleweight. That's it! It's over! It's really over!
Benitez drops to 49-5-1 with 30KOs. Hilton, the following year, becomes world champion at super welterweight division.
In 1987, Benitez travels to Buenos Aires, Argentina for a fight with local Carlos Herrera. Benitez lost by Unanimous decision. After the fight, the wicked promoter didn't pay him and Benitez spent a year in Buenos Aires, wandering around homeless. What happened? Why the Puerto Rican government didn't looked for him in times of trouble? I don't know. But, I believe that the government did a diservice to this great champion that gave the Island of Puerto Rico many thrills. He is one of Puerto Rico's most prestigious athletes. One of the top 100 greatest boxers and defensive wizards of all-time.
To see him now, it gives pain and sadness. He could barely speak and is a vegetable. He is taken care in Chicago, IL in a nursing home and now, the Puerto Rican government do everything in their power to help him with a monthly pension. The sport of boxing could be cruel and so brutal.
Benitez retired in 1990 with a record of 53-8-1, with 31KOs.
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
- Posts: 15652
- Joined: 02 Feb 2003, 03:50
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Now, this is the countdown so far:
100. Jersey Joe Walcott
99. Sonny Liston
98. Vicente Saldivar
97. Gene Fullmer
96. Mike Tyson
95. Eusebio Pedroza
94. Benny Lynch
93. Jack Britton
92. Tommy Ryan
91. Mike McCallum
90. James Toney
89. Tiger Flowers
88. Joe Brown
87. Ted "Kid" Lewis
86. Peter Jackson
85. Beau Jack
84. Lennox Lewis
83. Abe Attell
82. Holman Williams
81. Azumah Nelson
80. Erik "El Terrible" Morales
79. Luis Manuel Rodriguez
78. George Dixon
77. Ricardo "Finito" Lopez
76. Manuel Ortiz
75. Marco Antonio Barrera
74. Bob Foster
73. Pancho Villa
72. Jimmy Barry
71. Packey McFarland
70. Miguel Canto
69. Carlos Zarate
68. Wilfred Benitez
And now, at #67, we got another Puerto Rican, from Ponce, but raised in New York City, the great Carlos Ortiz!
100. Jersey Joe Walcott
99. Sonny Liston
98. Vicente Saldivar
97. Gene Fullmer
96. Mike Tyson
95. Eusebio Pedroza
94. Benny Lynch
93. Jack Britton
92. Tommy Ryan
91. Mike McCallum
90. James Toney
89. Tiger Flowers
88. Joe Brown
87. Ted "Kid" Lewis
86. Peter Jackson
85. Beau Jack
84. Lennox Lewis
83. Abe Attell
82. Holman Williams
81. Azumah Nelson
80. Erik "El Terrible" Morales
79. Luis Manuel Rodriguez
78. George Dixon
77. Ricardo "Finito" Lopez
76. Manuel Ortiz
75. Marco Antonio Barrera
74. Bob Foster
73. Pancho Villa
72. Jimmy Barry
71. Packey McFarland
70. Miguel Canto
69. Carlos Zarate
68. Wilfred Benitez
And now, at #67, we got another Puerto Rican, from Ponce, but raised in New York City, the great Carlos Ortiz!
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
- Posts: 15652
- Joined: 02 Feb 2003, 03:50
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
#67. Carlos Ortiz:
Record: 61-7-1, (1NC) 30KOs
KO Pct is 49%
Career: 1955-72
World Titles Held: World Jr. Welterweight Champion (1959-60), World Lightweight Champion (1962-65, 1965-68).
Highlights:. World Jr Welterweight Champion and two-time World Lightweight Champion that was undefeated in his first 27 bouts, winning his first 20. (Record: 26-0, 1NC, 10KOs). After losing to Italian Duilio Loi in their rubber match of the Jr welter crown, won 12 fights in a row from Sep 1961 to Dec 1964, including the World Lightweight Crown in April 1962. Made 3 title defenses of Jr welterweight crown, but made 11 title defenses of the lightweight crown in two reigns. Won ten of his last eleven bouts, then retired at age 36. Beat 5 out of 7 hall of famers. (Record versus hall of famers is 8-4-1, with 4KOs). Beat 5 out of 8 world champions. (Record versus world champions is 8-5-1 with 4KOs). Fought in 20 world title fights. (Record in world championship bouts is 16-4, with 9KOs).
Historical Impact: Became the Island of Puerto Rico second world champion in history in 1959. One of the greatest lightweight boxers of all-time and the was the best lightweight of the 1960s decade. Pound per pound, one of the 60s decade best.
Defining Fight: W15 Joe Brown....April 21, 1962..."Ends the reign of a great champion to start his own dynasty"
Other Defining Fights: W15 Duilio Loi, WTKO2 Kenny Lane (II) , L15 Duilio Loi (III) , WTKO14 Flash Elorde, WTKO5 Sugar Ramos, and [color=#00800]W15 Ismael Laguna (II) [/color]
Your thoughts on this great champion.
[/quote]
Record: 61-7-1, (1NC) 30KOs
KO Pct is 49%
Career: 1955-72
World Titles Held: World Jr. Welterweight Champion (1959-60), World Lightweight Champion (1962-65, 1965-68).
Highlights:. World Jr Welterweight Champion and two-time World Lightweight Champion that was undefeated in his first 27 bouts, winning his first 20. (Record: 26-0, 1NC, 10KOs). After losing to Italian Duilio Loi in their rubber match of the Jr welter crown, won 12 fights in a row from Sep 1961 to Dec 1964, including the World Lightweight Crown in April 1962. Made 3 title defenses of Jr welterweight crown, but made 11 title defenses of the lightweight crown in two reigns. Won ten of his last eleven bouts, then retired at age 36. Beat 5 out of 7 hall of famers. (Record versus hall of famers is 8-4-1, with 4KOs). Beat 5 out of 8 world champions. (Record versus world champions is 8-5-1 with 4KOs). Fought in 20 world title fights. (Record in world championship bouts is 16-4, with 9KOs).
Historical Impact: Became the Island of Puerto Rico second world champion in history in 1959. One of the greatest lightweight boxers of all-time and the was the best lightweight of the 1960s decade. Pound per pound, one of the 60s decade best.
Defining Fight: W15 Joe Brown....April 21, 1962..."Ends the reign of a great champion to start his own dynasty"
Other Defining Fights: W15 Duilio Loi, WTKO2 Kenny Lane (II) , L15 Duilio Loi (III) , WTKO14 Flash Elorde, WTKO5 Sugar Ramos, and [color=#00800]W15 Ismael Laguna (II) [/color]
Your thoughts on this great champion.
[/quote]
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
- Posts: 15652
- Joined: 02 Feb 2003, 03:50
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
#67. Carlos Ortiz:
Record: 61-7-1, (1NC) 30KOs
KO Pct is 49%
Career: 1955-72
World Titles Held: World Jr. Welterweight Champion (1959-60), World Lightweight Champion (1962-65, 1965-68).
Highlights:. World Jr Welterweight Champion and two-time World Lightweight Champion that was undefeated in his first 27 bouts, winning his first 20. (Record: 26-0, 1NC, 10KOs). After losing to Italian Duilio Loi in their rubber match of the Jr welter crown, won 12 fights in a row from Sep 1961 to Dec 1964, including the World Lightweight Crown in April 1962. Made 3 title defenses of Jr welterweight crown, but made 11 title defenses of the lightweight crown in two reigns. Won ten of his last eleven bouts, then retired at age 36. Beat 5 out of 7 hall of famers. (Record versus hall of famers is 8-4-1, with 4KOs). Beat 5 out of 8 world champions. (Record versus world champions is 8-5-1 with 4KOs). Fought in 20 world title fights. (Record in world championship bouts is 16-4, with 9KOs).
Historical Impact: Became the Island of Puerto Rico second world champion in history in 1959. One of the greatest lightweight boxers of all-time and the was the best lightweight of the 1960s decade. Pound per pound, one of the 60s decade best.
Defining Fight: W15 Joe Brown....April 21, 1962..."Ends the reign of a great champion to start his own dynasty"
Other Defining Fights: W15 Duilio Loi, WTKO2 Kenny Lane (II) , L15 Duilio Loi (III) , WTKO14 Flash Elorde, WTKO5 Sugar Ramos, and W15 Ismael Laguna (II)
Your thoughts about this great champion.
Record: 61-7-1, (1NC) 30KOs
KO Pct is 49%
Career: 1955-72
World Titles Held: World Jr. Welterweight Champion (1959-60), World Lightweight Champion (1962-65, 1965-68).
Highlights:. World Jr Welterweight Champion and two-time World Lightweight Champion that was undefeated in his first 27 bouts, winning his first 20. (Record: 26-0, 1NC, 10KOs). After losing to Italian Duilio Loi in their rubber match of the Jr welter crown, won 12 fights in a row from Sep 1961 to Dec 1964, including the World Lightweight Crown in April 1962. Made 3 title defenses of Jr welterweight crown, but made 11 title defenses of the lightweight crown in two reigns. Won ten of his last eleven bouts, then retired at age 36. Beat 5 out of 7 hall of famers. (Record versus hall of famers is 8-4-1, with 4KOs). Beat 5 out of 8 world champions. (Record versus world champions is 8-5-1 with 4KOs). Fought in 20 world title fights. (Record in world championship bouts is 16-4, with 9KOs).
Historical Impact: Became the Island of Puerto Rico second world champion in history in 1959. One of the greatest lightweight boxers of all-time and the was the best lightweight of the 1960s decade. Pound per pound, one of the 60s decade best.
Defining Fight: W15 Joe Brown....April 21, 1962..."Ends the reign of a great champion to start his own dynasty"
Other Defining Fights: W15 Duilio Loi, WTKO2 Kenny Lane (II) , L15 Duilio Loi (III) , WTKO14 Flash Elorde, WTKO5 Sugar Ramos, and W15 Ismael Laguna (II)
Your thoughts about this great champion.
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
- Posts: 15652
- Joined: 02 Feb 2003, 03:50
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Watching the great Carlos Ortiz fight was one of strangest boxing styles that I have ever seen on film of any fighter.
In my view, I don't see quite clear how he became an all-time pound per pound great boxer in his own right in a style of fighting that wasn't pleasant to the eye at all, but very effective.
Ortiz didn't looked like he was doing something great in particular in his fights. But, somehow was successful.
He had that great upper body strength, combined with an aggressive and clever infighting. He had a great left hook and a dynamite right cross. And he wasn't a big of a puncher, but he could do everything else well. He had great stamina and strength in the clinches. He threw a great volume of punches. If he got you in trouble, he was a terrific finisher.
Every motion was effortless. A very confident guy with a a great left jab.
In his early fights in the mid to lated 1950s decade, I saw an Ortiz, young and gay. Very intriguing to watch. I saw his fights with Felix Chiocca of France. I also saw his second fight with Harry Bell.
The fight with Johnny Busso of New York was a dandy. It was his first pro defeat in 27 pro fights. Busso was not a pushover. He could fight. In round 8, he rocked Ortiz and Ortiz was on queer street. Busso kept firing in the 9th and tenth rounds to get deservedly so, an unanimous decision. Fight #2 between them is not available on YouTube.
Busso, as a matter of fact, beat the reigning Lightweight World Champion, "Joltin' " Joe "Old Bones" Brown of New Orleans, LA, in a non-title bout. He lost to Brown in the rematch, and he never was again a true contender.
There's a clip of eleven minutes when Ortiz travelled to London, England and beat top contender, the local Dave Charley.
In my view, I don't see quite clear how he became an all-time pound per pound great boxer in his own right in a style of fighting that wasn't pleasant to the eye at all, but very effective.
Ortiz didn't looked like he was doing something great in particular in his fights. But, somehow was successful.
He had that great upper body strength, combined with an aggressive and clever infighting. He had a great left hook and a dynamite right cross. And he wasn't a big of a puncher, but he could do everything else well. He had great stamina and strength in the clinches. He threw a great volume of punches. If he got you in trouble, he was a terrific finisher.
Every motion was effortless. A very confident guy with a a great left jab.
In his early fights in the mid to lated 1950s decade, I saw an Ortiz, young and gay. Very intriguing to watch. I saw his fights with Felix Chiocca of France. I also saw his second fight with Harry Bell.
The fight with Johnny Busso of New York was a dandy. It was his first pro defeat in 27 pro fights. Busso was not a pushover. He could fight. In round 8, he rocked Ortiz and Ortiz was on queer street. Busso kept firing in the 9th and tenth rounds to get deservedly so, an unanimous decision. Fight #2 between them is not available on YouTube.
Busso, as a matter of fact, beat the reigning Lightweight World Champion, "Joltin' " Joe "Old Bones" Brown of New Orleans, LA, in a non-title bout. He lost to Brown in the rematch, and he never was again a true contender.
There's a clip of eleven minutes when Ortiz travelled to London, England and beat top contender, the local Dave Charley.
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Ortiz was a fantastic boxer. I thought he might make your top 50!
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
- Posts: 15652
- Joined: 02 Feb 2003, 03:50
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
- Posts: 15652
- Joined: 02 Feb 2003, 03:50
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Carlos Ortiz faced top lightweight southpaw contender Kenny Lane of Michigan for the Vacant World Jr Welterweight Championship that was inactive since 1946.
The fight was at the New York Madison Square Garden on June 12, 1959.
Lane beat Ortiz by majority decision a year earlier. Now, Ortiz is up for revenge of his second professional loss.
Not much to talk about this fight. It ended very quick due to a cut on Lane's eyebrow. Today, that fight would have been called a technical draw. It was hard to tell if Lane was clearly hit by a right hand or it was an accidental headbutt.
The referee declared a technical knockout win for Ortiz and Ortiz avenged his loss against Lane.
Puerto Rico has only their second world boxing champion in history since Sixto Escobar in 1936.
The fight was at the New York Madison Square Garden on June 12, 1959.
Lane beat Ortiz by majority decision a year earlier. Now, Ortiz is up for revenge of his second professional loss.
Not much to talk about this fight. It ended very quick due to a cut on Lane's eyebrow. Today, that fight would have been called a technical draw. It was hard to tell if Lane was clearly hit by a right hand or it was an accidental headbutt.
The referee declared a technical knockout win for Ortiz and Ortiz avenged his loss against Lane.
Puerto Rico has only their second world boxing champion in history since Sixto Escobar in 1936.
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
- Posts: 15652
- Joined: 02 Feb 2003, 03:50
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
On a double world boxing championship feature night at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, CA, Carlos Ortiz of Ponce, Puerto Rico, via New York City, defends his World Jr Welterweight crown against undefeated knockout artist Raymundo "Battling" Torres of Mexico.
Torres was only 18 years of age. Too young to challenge the much more seasoned professional. Ortiz was 23.
The fight happened on Thursday, February 4, 1960, thirteen days before Torres' birthday.
Torres was undefeated in 32 bouts with 24 knockouts. He stopped top Bantamweight contender Billy Peacock in a Jr lightweight class contest. He also beat top lightweight contender Paul Armstead by decision and stopped Bobby Rogers, an Ortiz's victim.
Also in the double world championship feature was the World Bantamweight Championship rematch between champion Jose Becerra of Mexico and former champion Alphonse Halimi of France.
The fight proved that Ortiz was the much more better and seasoned professional boxer. He used that left jab and right crosses that stumbled the young gun at times. Little by little, Ortiz was chopping him.
Torres had his moments. The crowd, mostly Mexican fans were rooting for him.
Ortiz controlled most of the fight with his clever boxing and experience. He was also much more stronger in the clinches. By round 9, Torres looked spent.
A left hook followed by a barrage of lefts and rights, put Torres out for the count in round ten. Ortiz successfully defends his crown by a ten round knockout win. It was a great fight.
Torres was game and in some instances shook Ortiz with right hands and uppercuts. But, he needed much more experience and was not at the stage in my point of view to challenge for a world title. He needed at least two or three more years of fighting top contenders and then, be fully ready for a world title try. I think that his management team, pushed him too early.
Ortiz improves to 33-2, 1NC, with 12KOs in a great performance.
Torres was only 18 years of age. Too young to challenge the much more seasoned professional. Ortiz was 23.
The fight happened on Thursday, February 4, 1960, thirteen days before Torres' birthday.
Torres was undefeated in 32 bouts with 24 knockouts. He stopped top Bantamweight contender Billy Peacock in a Jr lightweight class contest. He also beat top lightweight contender Paul Armstead by decision and stopped Bobby Rogers, an Ortiz's victim.
Also in the double world championship feature was the World Bantamweight Championship rematch between champion Jose Becerra of Mexico and former champion Alphonse Halimi of France.
The fight proved that Ortiz was the much more better and seasoned professional boxer. He used that left jab and right crosses that stumbled the young gun at times. Little by little, Ortiz was chopping him.
Torres had his moments. The crowd, mostly Mexican fans were rooting for him.
Ortiz controlled most of the fight with his clever boxing and experience. He was also much more stronger in the clinches. By round 9, Torres looked spent.
A left hook followed by a barrage of lefts and rights, put Torres out for the count in round ten. Ortiz successfully defends his crown by a ten round knockout win. It was a great fight.
Torres was game and in some instances shook Ortiz with right hands and uppercuts. But, he needed much more experience and was not at the stage in my point of view to challenge for a world title. He needed at least two or three more years of fighting top contenders and then, be fully ready for a world title try. I think that his management team, pushed him too early.
Ortiz improves to 33-2, 1NC, with 12KOs in a great performance.
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Jeff_lacy_ko
- Super Featherweight
- Posts: 5710
- Joined: 06 Sep 2018, 14:15
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
He fought a lot of rounda at a high level. That coupled with drugs makes someone age faster. Age is a number in boxing, rounds age a fighter especially at the top level.elmersalsa wrote: ↑23 Sep 2023, 22:28 The year 1985 was a good one for El Radar, Wilfred Benitez. The former three-time World Champion in 3 different weight classes won the 3 fights that he had in 1985. Is he taking the fight game seriously now? You better believe it.
He beat Mauricio Bravo in March by knockout in two. Then, in July stops Danny Chapman in seven. And then, in August, wins by unanimous decision against Kevin Moley.
Were they household names? Not really. But, he got to start winning somewhat or someway to get his confidence back. One day at a time. One fight at a time. Just keep winning, and you will get back the attention. And a title shot.
Well, six months later, on February 15, 1986 in Montreal, Canada, he got the attention of a young and rising undefeated contender named Matthew Hilton of Montreal.
Hilton, was only 20 years old with 19 fights won, 16 won by knockout. And he got plenty of punching power and stamina and was very strong. Can Benitez handle him?
At that age of 20, Benitez was already a two-time World champion in 2 weight divisions. Hilton wasn't even a professional boxer yet. Hilton was only 13.
Hilton, like Benitez, was a prodigy. His father, Davey Hilton, Sr, was a former professional boxer. Matthew had also four other brothers fighting professionally. But, it seems that he was the best of the Hilton bunch. At least, he looked the most promising.
The fight was set at the Paul Sauve Arena in Montreal. It was jammed packed. Did Benitez, like Antonio Cervantes and Carlos Palomino made the same mistake in going to someone's home turf to fight Hilton? Was he getting the big money that he hasn't got in a long time? I don't know. But, to me, if I were in his corner, I would have told him not to take that fight. Let alone go to the young shark's home turf to fight him. I would have told Benitez to fight him somewhere else than Montreal. He should have fought him in Puerto Rico or in a neutral site.
But, at 27, Benitez had all the experience necessary at least to outmaneuver the young promising prospect.
Well, the fight was another disaster for the legendary champion. In the very first round, he got a wicked left hook shot to the ribs, and Benitez in pain, went down.
And it went all downhill from thence. Benitez didn't had the power, nor the strength nor nothing to cause the young shark to give some respect. No pep in his punches. He even looked very disoriented and disorganized. Was the crowd getting to his concentration? It was the first time in his illustrious career that he ever faced the crowd against him.
Benitez was getting an ass whupping from the very first round. Something very sad to see. How can a master became old at a very young age? At 27 years of age, lots of boxers are still in the primes of their careers. This is a young man's sport. How come then, at 27, Benitez looked shot?
I only saw Benitez win two rounds. And that's probably a gift. In round 5, I saw him win by a 10-8 score, not because he dropped Hilton down, which he didn't, but because Hilton hit Benitez low. That was it. Almost after that, it was all Hilton's.
In round 9, Benitez needs a knockout to win this fight. He doesn't have it. He didn't had it from jump street. He didn't had the power nor strength to keep this magnificent young shark off from him. Hilton had him on the ropes and Benitez as usual, was defending himself off it. A wicked left hook shot to the ribs then followed by another left hook to the chin and Benitez went down. It was one of the most crucifying knockouts ever recorded on film. What a shot! Benitez went down like a pine tree and the referee counted to 1000. He is not getting up. The winner and still undefeated rising contender, Matthew Hilton!
This was it for Benitez. Should he retire? Yes, and quickly. He doesn't have it to keep competing at a high level. It's a different scene of four years back of how magnificent and spectacular he was to see him get clobbered by a world class boxer. This should be the end of his great career. Forget about a fourth world title at middleweight. That's it! It's over! It's really over!
Benitez drops to 49-5-1 with 30KOs. Hilton, the following year, becomes world champion at super welterweight division.
In 1987, Benitez travels to Buenos Aires, Argentina for a fight with local Carlos Herrera. Benitez lost by Unanimous decision. After the fight, the wicked promoter didn't pay him and Benitez spent a year in Buenos Aires, wandering around homeless. What happened? Why the Puerto Rican government didn't looked for him in times of trouble? I don't know. But, I believe that the government did a diservice to this great champion that gave the Island of Puerto Rico many thrills. He is one of Puerto Rico's most prestigious athletes. One of the top 100 greatest boxers and defensive wizards of all-time.
To see him now, it gives pain and sadness. He could barely speak and is a vegetable. He is taken care in Chicago, IL in a nursing home and now, the Puerto Rican government do everything in their power to help him with a monthly pension. The sport of boxing could be cruel and so brutal.
Benitez retired in 1990 with a record of 53-8-1, with 31KOs.
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Ambling Alp II
- Super Middleweight
- Posts: 15097
- Joined: 04 Nov 2012, 18:31
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
He only won 53 fights. Only won titles in three different weight classes. Beat elite fighters. He won fights in a period spanning 17 years. Yet according to elmer, should not be ranked too high because he lacked "longevity". Who are we to disagree?
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
- Posts: 15652
- Joined: 02 Feb 2003, 03:50
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Other guys have done more than Carlos Ortiz, Alp.Ambling Alp II wrote: ↑30 Oct 2023, 09:20 He only won 53 fights. Only won titles in three different weight classes. Beat elite fighters. He won fights in a period spanning 17 years. Yet according to elmer, should not be ranked too high because he lacked "longevity". Who are we to disagree?
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
- Posts: 15652
- Joined: 02 Feb 2003, 03:50
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Sorry, Wilfred Benitez did a lot, but not top 50 material.Ambling Alp II wrote: ↑30 Oct 2023, 09:20 He only won 53 fights. Only won titles in three different weight classes. Beat elite fighters. He won fights in a period spanning 17 years. Yet according to elmer, should not be ranked too high because he lacked "longevity". Who are we to disagree?
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Ambling Alp II
- Super Middleweight
- Posts: 15097
- Joined: 04 Nov 2012, 18:31
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Please. I'm sure you will penalize Duran heavily for losing to someone that is not Top 50 material. Oh wait, there has to be some lame excuse.
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Ambling Alp II
- Super Middleweight
- Posts: 15097
- Joined: 04 Nov 2012, 18:31
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Never said that no one did. Wasn't even talking about him. But yes, Benitez and others did do more.elmersalsa wrote: ↑30 Oct 2023, 10:26Other guys have done more than Carlos Ortiz, Alp.Ambling Alp II wrote: ↑30 Oct 2023, 09:20 He only won 53 fights. Only won titles in three different weight classes. Beat elite fighters. He won fights in a period spanning 17 years. Yet according to elmer, should not be ranked too high because he lacked "longevity". Who are we to disagree?
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Ok, we need Elmer to get moving. I ain't getting any younger. Benitez took, what, six months? Eff, I'm going to have to live to 135, which ain't happening