You make some very good points, Slim.

In fact, I'd say there are two career characteristics (maybe three) that help define an ATG.

One of course is cleaning out a division, as you say. I've become disenchanted with belts for the sake of belts, because joke organizations like the WBC keep on inventing belts to further glorify their fav fighters. But in reality, if you stick around a weight division long enough.... and beat every top contender (and fellow belt holder) in that division.... that is definitely grounds for ATG argument.

Going up several weight divisions successfully is another criteria, IMO. You don't have to do both (that would be grounds for GOAT).... but going up several weight divisions like Manny did, considering that he in fact DID beat some great opposition at those weights.... is IMO worthy of ATG consideration itself.

Finally just quality of opposition throughout your lifetime. At the end of it all, it shouldn't matter that you didn't collect "x or y" numbers of trinkets... or that your body didn't have the amazing ability to gain weight without losing power or speed. If your resume reads like a "Who's Who of Boxing", and you've beaten a hell of a lot more greats than you lost to, well..... maybe that alone should qualify you for ATG on its own.