I dont think the Hopkins challenge is as absurd as this writer claims. I dont see these various challenges as proposals to put Floyd into a situation where he can be separated from the recognition he deserves. Its not about that. Its about finding a REAL challenge because the guy IS recognized for being that good. Is pretty wild that I can dismiss the potential match with Pacquiao because I think Mayweather would win handily. The two men have had FIVE common opponents and, for the most part, that doesnt provide grounds for my opinion. But looking at Juan Manuel Marquez, we see Pacquiao had four close fights with him including a draw and a loss. Floyd completely dominated Marquez in their one match. But in recent outings, Pacquiao seems to have lost some of his edge, losing to both Marquez and Tim Bradley in 2012. And I think partly by their own actions, avoidance, whatever you want to call it, Floyd and Manny have lost their chance for us to be as excited as we wanted to be about them fighting. But on the topic of common opponents, consider this: Despite the weight difference that Paul Magno really emphasizes here, Floyd and Bernard actually DO have a common opponent! Bernard beat Oscar de la Hoya back in 2004 at 160 lbs and Floyd beat him in 2007 at 154 lbs. It would take work and a gamble by both fighters. Floyd would lose some speed and agility but gain some power and Bernard would lose power and tax an amazing but still aging body. But this weight gap is not nearly *impossible* to close and I think it falls short of being absurd. My friend Dan makes a strong case that Bernard should retire on a high note at age 48 and that the money is not worth any further concussions. I wouldnt fault Bernard for agreeing with that but it seems not in his nature. He might see this potential match as the one big thing left to do, win OR lose. The Mayweather camp seems to not be interested and thats cool, too. A rejection of this fight by Floyd is reasonable and completely forgivable. But if it did happen, its outcome is almost irrelevant regarding the legacy and respect each fighter has earned. Nothing can take anything away from either man at this point. The outcome would only be important to the fans of boxing watching it and its entertainment and historical value would be amazing.
Posted on: Fri, 15 Nov 2013 15:21:57 +0000
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