Unlikely fighters who impressed you

I'm starting this thread because I was looking over some of the old champions and one I knew of but hadn't paid much attention to really caught my eye. Tommy Burns was only 5'7, a minuscule heavyweight in terms of height but look at the footwork, look at the low guard which was inviting his opponent to throw so he could counter which he did expertly. Very impressive for that era IMO. I certainly didn't figure that I would watch a fight from 1906 and see such a style.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUDIXdef9rU


Have any of you found boxers of the old days or more recent history and been thoroughly impressed by them? If so who and please share video of what you were impressed by.

​I wouldn't classify him as 'unlikely', to be honest. The guy was world heavyweight champion and is still remembered to this day?

Oldies: Norman Hayes


He shocked fans when he won a split decision over Lamotta, never saw that- but the 2nd I've seen.
https://youtu.be/8FiNykNJbEI


Highlights on this vid IMO doesn't do justice as there was hot action from 2nd round on. When compromised Hayes squares up and - in retaliation he resorts to throwing arm punches. Yet in spite of this Lamotta wobbled him, but never seemed to hurt Hayes who would throw from any angle, flat footed or off balanced.

I read where he also shocked Pender. About 4:30 into this clip is where I recommend looking- again the editor of this video...not sure why he waited till the 3rd round to highlight when in the last 30 seconds of round 2 is when a fire fight breaks out-


Current: Joe Smith Jr.