Yeah, there was so much talent, I think we took it for granted.

There were terrific bouts between contenders, and you were excited waiting for the big fight the way you do for World Title fights, but they were just fights between two contenders, often on free network tv.

Lennox Lewis vs Ray Mercer.
Ray Mercer vs Evander Holyfield.
Evander Holyfield vs Alex Stewart.

Mike Tyson vs Razor Ruddock

Smokin Bert Cooper vs Michael Moorer.
Tommy Morrison vs Ray Mercer (WBO wasn't seen as a real World Title).
Tommy Morrison vs Joe Hipp.
Razor Ruddock vs Tommy Morrison.

Riddick Bowe vs Elijah Tillery.
Andrew Golota vs Riddick Bowe.
Samson Po'uha vs Andrew Golota.

Ike Ibeabuchi vs Chris Byrd.
Ike Ibeabuchi vs David Tua.
David Tua vs John Ruiz.

Jimmy Thnuder vs Tim Witherspoon.
Maurice Harris vs Derrick Jefferson.


Just some that come to mind.
Terrific bouts.

Nowadays, they protect them, protect that "0".
A guy gets a Title shot and hasn't developed his skills enough for world class because he was too protected.