Favorite Fighter(s) : Arguello, Finito, Duran, Saad Muhammad Posts : 4040 Join date : 2010-05-16
Subject: TYSON ON PAST CHAMPIONS Mon Sep 27, 2010 10:36 pm
I stumbled on this fascinating British Documentary that involves going over highlights of past champions with Mike Tyson in 1985 or so. The extent of Tyson's knowledge about the history of boxing is astonishing. The give and take between Tyson and the host is wonderful. Tyson at his personable best. Here is his take on some past champions.
Jack Johnson-A genius who probably couldn't fight today. Hist style would get him thrown out of the sport as boring.
Jack Dempsey-Unmatched ferocity. Immense skill. His size wouldn't prevent him from dominating in Tyson's day.
Gene Tunney-A master boxer, but no Jack Dempsey.
Joe Louis-Probably the best, Ali included. His ring smarts, calmness and punching accuracy made him who he was. Tyson was asked about the "Bum of the Month Club." His answer? Most of the guys even in a top era like the 1960's and 1970's had they fought Joe Louis they would have been considered bums too.
Jersey Joe Walcott-A great fighter. To have that physique and that desire at 37 speaks volumes.
Rocky Marciano-When asked if Marciano was dirty Tyson answers "It isn't a dance in there." Asked if Marciano was tool small his response "You just don't know." Cus D'amato said the way to beat Rock was to crowd him. Tyson laughingly then says "Try to convince a fighter that crowding Marciano is a good idea."
Floyd Patterson-The fastest hands of any heavyweight ever. Tyson's technical understanding is marvelous.
Muhammad Ali- When you watch him fight Sonny Liston they look like fighters from two different times. He oohs and ahhs repeatedly over Ali's movement.
It's a wonderful show. I was shocked when near the end the British host asked Tyson about British heavyweights and Tyson responded that when he thought of British fighters he thought of men like Owen Moran and Ted Kid Lewis. The host was stunned as those two men were pre 1920. Tyson spoke authoritatively about their careers and styles. Really, really a student. Tyson focuses relentlessly on the mental aspects of fighters and the sport.
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