Calzaghe, let's show a little respect...

[RockyFatton]

I'm an infrequent poster, but the criticism of Joe Calzaghe on this site (and others) has provoked me into a response. Basically, I think people need to stand back a little bit and get some perspective.

Calzaghe's record clearly speaks for itself: W 42 (31 ko's) | L 0 | D 0, a two belt world champion (and yes I know he's had to give one up) a Ring Magazine champion, he features on most of the respected pound for pound listings and he's the longest current reigning world champion.

I am inclined to agree we those that say however, that unless he fights Kessler or another truly big name, we won't know how good he really is, and whether he will go down in history as a truly great fighter, or merely a very good one.

But, lets get some perspective. In the final analysis, we can't judge a mans career until he hangs up his gloves. Yes, Manfredo isn't the most challenging fight for him out there, but so what? It will help raise his profile, (particularly in the US) and will help pave the way for the make the 'clash of the titans' fights we all crave. And why begrudge him of making a little money before thowing himself into the eye of the storm? In my opinion he's earned it (particularly as his ex-wife near cleaned him out in the divorce courts).

Another point. To all the people demanding to know why Calzaghe hasn't thought Kessler, Wright etc... Do you really appreciate how difficult is is to make these fights? We don't what fighters are really demanding to make a fight, despite what they claim. But I sincerely don't doubt for a minute that Joe would fight Kessler next week if the deal on the table the deal was good enough....

Lastly, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but I think we should show a little respect for fighters like Calzaghe. Boxing is a very, very tough and dangerous sport. You don't get to the top without being extremely talented, dedicated, courageous and a being a world-class athlete to boot. So unless all of you posters are ex-world champion boxers yourselves, less have a little bit more respect for the man, whether or not you agree with all of his choices.

[Rotten Apple]

Calzaghe wouldn't need to make a little money if he would of took the 3.4 million offer from Kessler. I like Joe as a fighter but it's hard to understand him, much less respect him when he talks about facing the best fighters than follows Bika with Manfredo. While someone like Taylor fights Hopkins (2) than follows with Wright and Ouma

[Jimanuel Boogustus]

Calzaghe's record clearly speaks for itself: W 42 (31 ko's) | L 0 | D 0,

No it doesn't... His record speaks for himself only.

An unbeaten record these days, is a relative thing.... His record is relativley poor.

[Tito BHB]

I respect all fighters.. fighting is tough...
So i respect joe as a fighter..
But as ' World Class' (which he is.) he hasnt earnt my respect... he can start claiming his respect when he fights the best, he walking and talking like he is the champ, but hes not fighting like the champ..
Thats why he doesnt get my respect as an athlete/sportsman.
Peace

[Rotten Apple]

I respect all fighters.. fighting is tough...
So i respect joe as a fighter..
But as ' World Class' (which he is.) he hasnt earnt my respect... he can start claiming his respect when he fights the best, he walking and talking like he is the champ, but hes not fighting like the champ..
Thats why he doesnt get my respect as an athlete/sportsman.
Peace

How can you say he's world class but not respect him? It makes no sence. It's either one or the other.

[cockey cockney]

No offence Rocky but i think Joe's choices of opponent have been piss poor. To the point im almost embarrased to call myself a big fan(which i am). If he retires after beating Manfredo, or good forbid he looses, then he DOES NOT go down as a all time great in my books.

[Tito BHB]

I respect all fighters.. fighting is tough...
So i respect joe as a fighter..
But as ' World Class' (which he is.) he hasnt earnt my respect... he can start claiming his respect when he fights the best, he walking and talking like he is the champ, but hes not fighting like the champ..
Thats why he doesnt get my respect as an athlete/sportsman.
Peace

How can you say he's world class but not respect him? It makes no sence. It's either one or the other.

No.. you can catch my drift.. i guess i didnt word it right..
he is a fighter.. respect..
hes professional.. respect for that too
World class.. more respect..

But the way in which he has had such a long time on top and feels he is in the leagues of great american fighters that have fought like champions..
when he clearly has not..
with his record its shocking its like he should have a wbu or ibo title but not a major world title..
its been said by all the haters.. im no hater... But well.. its just true is all!!
hes world class.. but he claims on top tier greatness which he hasnt earnt..
think of the above list as a respect meter.. theres three points out of four there..
he's on three... but he thinks and demands four.. but hasnt worked for it..
Peace

[Hacienda]

I think what Tito is saying is that, it's NOT Calzaghe CAN'T beat these guys...probably he can.

It's just he has failed to step up to the plate - only once was he 'dragged' to the plate (against Lacy)and it turned out succesful.

However, look at his last clutch of opponents and his future opponents:-

Evans Ashira = middleweight
Sakio Bika = former middleweight
Manfredo = Light middle

Proposed fights:

Taylor = middleweight
Winky?= middleweight
B-hop= middleweight

Fans fights:-

Kessler = super-middle
Froch = super-middle
Bute = super-middle

It seems Joe is only happy fighting smaller guys...in his own backyard!

Now it dont take a genius to see why all the critiscm does it?

Joe is a fine fighter and for me i think he needs to travel & fight the proper big-boys - Kess not being 'a name'is not an excuse to start using now! Kess has top dollar on the table and Joe has been happy facing nobodies for years!

C'mon Joe- you can do it, so get it on !

[ImRipped]

I'm an infrequent poster, but the criticism of Joe Calzaghe on this site (and others) has provoked me into a response. Basically, I think people need to stand back a little bit and get some perspective.

Calzaghe's record clearly speaks for itself: W 42 (31 ko's) | L 0 | D 0, a two belt world champion (and yes I know he's had to give one up) a Ring Magazine champion, he features on most of the respected pound for pound listings and he's the longest current reigning world champion.

I am inclined to agree we those that say however, that unless he fights Kessler or another truly big name, we won't know how good he really is, and whether he will go down in history as a truly great fighter, or merely a very good one.

But, lets get some perspective. In the final analysis, we can't judge a mans career until he hangs up his gloves. Yes, Manfredo isn't the most challenging fight for him out there, but so what? It will help raise his profile, (particularly in the US) and will help pave the way for the make the 'clash of the titans' fights we all crave. And why begrudge him of making a little money before thowing himself into the eye of the storm? In my opinion he's earned it (particularly as his ex-wife near cleaned him out in the divorce courts).

Another point. To all the people demanding to know why Calzaghe hasn't thought Kessler, Wright etc... Do you really appreciate how difficult is is to make these fights? We don't what fighters are really demanding to make a fight, despite what they claim. But I sincerely don't doubt for a minute that Joe would fight Kessler next week if the deal on the table the deal was good enough....

Lastly, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but I think we should show a little respect for fighters like Calzaghe. Boxing is a very, very tough and dangerous sport. You don't get to the top without being extremely talented, dedicated, courageous and a being a world-class athlete to boot. So unless all of you posters are ex-world champion boxers yourselves, less have a little bit more respect for the man, whether or not you agree with all of his choices.

I see you have a perfect cool click to sad click ratio. Allow me to change that. Sad click!

[ICB]

I'm an infrequent poster, but the criticism of Joe Calzaghe on this site (and others) has provoked me into a response. Basically, I think people need to stand back a little bit and get some perspective.

Calzaghe's record clearly speaks for itself: W 42 (31 ko's) | L 0 | D 0, a two belt world champion (and yes I know he's had to give one up) a Ring Magazine champion, he features on most of the respected pound for pound listings and he's the longest current reigning world champion.

I am inclined to agree we those that say however, that unless he fights Kessler or another truly big name, we won't know how good he really is, and whether he will go down in history as a truly great fighter, or merely a very good one.

But, lets get some perspective. In the final analysis, we can't judge a mans career until he hangs up his gloves. Yes, Manfredo isn't the most challenging fight for him out there, but so what? It will help raise his profile, (particularly in the US) and will help pave the way for the make the 'clash of the titans' fights we all crave. And why begrudge him of making a little money before thowing himself into the eye of the storm? In my opinion he's earned it (particularly as his ex-wife near cleaned him out in the divorce courts).

Another point. To all the people demanding to know why Calzaghe hasn't thought Kessler, Wright etc... Do you really appreciate how difficult is is to make these fights? We don't what fighters are really demanding to make a fight, despite what they claim. But I sincerely don't doubt for a minute that Joe would fight Kessler next week if the deal on the table the deal was good enough....

Lastly, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but I think we should show a little respect for fighters like Calzaghe. Boxing is a very, very tough and dangerous sport. You don't get to the top without being extremely talented, dedicated, courageous and a being a world-class athlete to boot. So unless all of you posters are ex-world champion boxers yourselves, less have a little bit more respect for the man, whether or not you agree with all of his choices.

I see you have a perfect cool click to sad click ratio. Allow me to change that. Sad click!

how sad ..

[stebs]

I'm an infrequent poster, but the criticism of Joe Calzaghe on this site (and others) has provoked me into a response. Basically, I think people need to stand back a little bit and get some perspective.

Calzaghe's record clearly speaks for itself: W 42 (31 ko's) | L 0 | D 0, a two belt world champion (and yes I know he's had to give one up) a Ring Magazine champion, he features on most of the respected pound for pound listings and he's the longest current reigning world champion.

I am inclined to agree we those that say however, that unless he fights Kessler or another truly big name, we won't know how good he really is, and whether he will go down in history as a truly great fighter, or merely a very good one.

But, lets get some perspective. In the final analysis, we can't judge a mans career until he hangs up his gloves. Yes, Manfredo isn't the most challenging fight for him out there, but so what? It will help raise his profile, (particularly in the US) and will help pave the way for the make the 'clash of the titans' fights we all crave. And why begrudge him of making a little money before thowing himself into the eye of the storm? In my opinion he's earned it (particularly as his ex-wife near cleaned him out in the divorce courts).

Another point. To all the people demanding to know why Calzaghe hasn't thought Kessler, Wright etc... Do you really appreciate how difficult is is to make these fights? We don't what fighters are really demanding to make a fight, despite what they claim. But I sincerely don't doubt for a minute that Joe would fight Kessler next week if the deal on the table the deal was good enough....

Lastly, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but I think we should show a little respect for fighters like Calzaghe. Boxing is a very, very tough and dangerous sport. You don't get to the top without being extremely talented, dedicated, courageous and a being a world-class athlete to boot. So unless all of you posters are ex-world champion boxers yourselves, less have a little bit more respect for the man, whether or not you agree with all of his choices.

I see you have a perfect cool click to sad click ratio. Allow me to change that. Sad click!

how sad ..

At least he had the balls to tell him he was sad clicking him, I can't say I agree with this guys post about Calzaghe but I wouldn't sad click him for it, actually I think the cool/sad clicks should be abolished.

Calzaghe will earn my respect when he steps up to the plate and fights someone of real merit without making them fight him with 40,000 Calzaghe fans behind him, all the American boxing fans already know him but if he wants us Americans to appreciate him he better get over here and fight someone we consider a great fighter. He doesn't even have to do that, he could grow some balls and unify the titles on neutral soil. Until he does that he's just another fighter taking the easy fights to build a record. I thought that was what new fighters did, build a record agains't lesser opponents and then step it up to better competition until they got a title shot. Calzaghe's going backwards losing the respect of his own countryman and us Amercans while Manfredo is gaining the respect of Joes own people. To bad for Joe, this fight does nothing but harm him, win or lose.

[Violent Demise]

I'm an infrequent poster, but the criticism of Joe Calzaghe on this site (and others) has provoked me into a response. Basically, I think people need to stand back a little bit and get some perspective.

Calzaghe's record clearly speaks for itself: W 42 (31 ko's) | L 0 | D 0, a two belt world champion (and yes I know he's had to give one up) a Ring Magazine champion, he features on most of the respected pound for pound listings and he's the longest current reigning world champion.

I am inclined to agree we those that say however, that unless he fights Kessler or another truly big name, we won't know how good he really is, and whether he will go down in history as a truly great fighter, or merely a very good one.

But, lets get some perspective. In the final analysis, we can't judge a mans career until he hangs up his gloves. Yes, Manfredo isn't the most challenging fight for him out there, but so what? It will help raise his profile, (particularly in the US) and will help pave the way for the make the 'clash of the titans' fights we all crave. And why begrudge him of making a little money before thowing himself into the eye of the storm? In my opinion he's earned it (particularly as his ex-wife near cleaned him out in the divorce courts).

Another point. To all the people demanding to know why Calzaghe hasn't thought Kessler, Wright etc... Do you really appreciate how difficult is is to make these fights? We don't what fighters are really demanding to make a fight, despite what they claim. But I sincerely don't doubt for a minute that Joe would fight Kessler next week if the deal on the table the deal was good enough....

Lastly, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but I think we should show a little respect for fighters like Calzaghe. Boxing is a very, very tough and dangerous sport. You don't get to the top without being extremely talented, dedicated, courageous and a being a world-class athlete to boot. So unless all of you posters are ex-world champion boxers yourselves, less have a little bit more respect for the man, whether or not you agree with all of his choices.

Respect is earned by fighting the best out there. Not just talking about fighting them. And it sure ain't earned by turning down 3.4 million against the biggest threat in your division to fight a bum. I got no respect for Calzaghe

[Kev]

Joe hasn't done anything to maintain fight fans respect at all. I'm a Brit and for years Calzaghe has been my favourite fighter but he's proven not just once but TWICE now since Lacy that he doesn't want to take risks.

Hand picking Manfredo to be a high profile whipping boy for the American audience is probably the biggest act of cowardice since Riddick Bowe threw his belt in the ring rather than face Lennox Lewis.

I really want to Manfredo to cause an upset in this fight. Credit to him for taking the fight, but shame on his promotional and management team for thrusting him into a conflict that he is just not ready for.

After witnessing the brutal beatdown Calzaghe gave Lacy, you have to question Manfredo's management team in allowing him to go over there and potentially face a career destroying beating.

The only reason Manfredo has been picked is because Calzaghe, his team, HBO, American fans, British fans, probably even Manfredo's own team know that Manfredo is going to get blown away.

Its a chance for Calzaghe to bully the naturally smaller guy, who is not in his league, in order to look good in America.

I really, really hope it backfires on him.

[ICB]

I'm an infrequent poster, but the criticism of Joe Calzaghe on this site (and others) has provoked me into a response. Basically, I think people need to stand back a little bit and get some perspective.

Calzaghe's record clearly speaks for itself: W 42 (31 ko's) | L 0 | D 0, a two belt world champion (and yes I know he's had to give one up) a Ring Magazine champion, he features on most of the respected pound for pound listings and he's the longest current reigning world champion.

I am inclined to agree we those that say however, that unless he fights Kessler or another truly big name, we won't know how good he really is, and whether he will go down in history as a truly great fighter, or merely a very good one.

But, lets get some perspective. In the final analysis, we can't judge a mans career until he hangs up his gloves. Yes, Manfredo isn't the most challenging fight for him out there, but so what? It will help raise his profile, (particularly in the US) and will help pave the way for the make the 'clash of the titans' fights we all crave. And why begrudge him of making a little money before thowing himself into the eye of the storm? In my opinion he's earned it (particularly as his ex-wife near cleaned him out in the divorce courts).

Another point. To all the people demanding to know why Calzaghe hasn't thought Kessler, Wright etc... Do you really appreciate how difficult is is to make these fights? We don't what fighters are really demanding to make a fight, despite what they claim. But I sincerely don't doubt for a minute that Joe would fight Kessler next week if the deal on the table the deal was good enough....

Lastly, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but I think we should show a little respect for fighters like Calzaghe. Boxing is a very, very tough and dangerous sport. You don't get to the top without being extremely talented, dedicated, courageous and a being a world-class athlete to boot. So unless all of you posters are ex-world champion boxers yourselves, less have a little bit more respect for the man, whether or not you agree with all of his choices.

I see you have a perfect cool click to sad click ratio. Allow me to change that. Sad click!

how sad ..

At least he had the balls to tell him he was sad clicking him, I can't say I agree with this guys post about Calzaghe but I wouldn't sad click him for it, actually I think the cool/sad clicks should be abolished.

Calzaghe will earn my respect when he steps up to the plate and fights someone of real merit without making them fight him with 40,000 Calzaghe fans behind him, all the American boxing fans already know him but if he wants us Americans to appreciate him he better get over here and fight someone we consider a great fighter. He doesn't even have to do that, he could grow some balls and unify the titles on neutral soil. Until he does that he's just another fighter taking the easy fights to build a record. I thought that was what new fighters did, build a record agains't lesser opponents and then step it up to better competition until they got a title shot. Calzaghe's going backwards losing the respect of his own countryman and us Amercans while Manfredo is gaining the respect of Joes own people. To bad for Joe, this fight does nothing but harm him, win or lose.

he scs everyone for no good reason i dont care if he has the balls to say it

[CutMeMick]

Show Joe C. respect.... For what? Not fighting Kessler? ? ? ? Or any decent opponent at least....

Peter Manfredo ? ? ? ? Come on I'm sorry but I just can't not after that signed fight.... It just ain't happening from me....