Quote Originally Posted by mikeeod View Post
In my opinion Hop's win over Tito was the most complete performance of that decade. Tito was the clear favorite coming off one of the most impressive runs with wins over Sweet Pea (who was well past his best), Oscar, David Reid, Fernando Vargas and capped off with the complete annihilation of Joppy who was the universally recognized #2 middleweight. This was a legit superfight and shouldn't be degraded or downplayed in any way.

Hop completely dominated Tito in every facet of the fight, most notably during the build up using psychological warfare prior to even getting in the ring. Once in the ring he confused Tito by boxing beautifully behind his jab and constantly making Tito reset his feet so he couldn't use his power. Hop worked the body throughout and was brilliant in setting traps along the ropes by throwing the uppercut so that Tito would try to counter with his hook and allow Hop to land clean counter rights. Once inside Hop was equally brilliant at slipping and countering with big shots, and proved he had an ATG chin by absorbing some big left hooks from a murderous puncher. Phenomenal performance.
Well said.