Think Floyd was an ATG talent/fighter, without a doubt. That being said, agree with those that say Floyd was too small to beat Tommy Hearns or Ray Leonard. That isn't a knock on Floyd, just saying they were too much physically for a guy who started at 130.
Not sure ANYONE knocks Floyd's #%$!! in the dirt, but would match him against the following:
1. Roberto Duran: Formidable blend of savagery, skill, and power proved too much for the larger Ray Leonard in their first fight, would likely cause Floyd fits as well. On the "flip side", Ray fought a stupid fight out of anger, and Floyd was the master at making the other guy fight mad while he remained relaxed. Also, Duran had trouble with fast, master boxers due to slower feet. While I think this fight is extremely close and tough for both, a think the more physical Duran pulls out the decision win.
2. Julio Ceasar Chavez: Jose Luis Castillo was referred to as the "Poor Man's Chavez", and he beat Floyd in their first fight, so imagine what the better, more formidable version would've done!!! Chavez's steady pressure, accurate punches, durability, stamina, strength, and power would've proven difficult to overcome for Pretty Boy. Floyd saved his best performances, however, for his most serious/dangerous challengers, and I don't think this fight would be any different. Think Floyd would take some significant punishment along the way to winning a close decision.
3. Aaron Pryor: Larger fighter who was the epitome of perpetual motion and non-stop punches. Floyd was a master at defense/countering, and Pryor's aggression would've provided numerous scoring and countering opportunities. That being said, Floyd was efficient and economical with his shots and I see Pryor hustling his way to the decision.
4. Meldrick Taylor: Taylor is the one guy I've seen who I feel has the faster hands and feet than Floyd, but tended to be reckless and fight in a Philly style to his own detriment. I think Floyd's discipline and intelligence would win the day in a very tough fight.
5. Sweet Pea Whitaker: Southpaw master boxer/defensive specialist vs orthodox master boxer/defensive specialist. Pea beat better comp in my opinion, while Floyd was slightly better offensively. Not sure I can pick between these two ATGs.
6. Kostya Tszyu: Physically powerful, relentless boxer who had scary power in both hands. Floyd would have some issues in the early rounds but would take over the second half of the fight (after Kostya gassed) for the tough win.
7. Prime Oscar: Jab and size make this a difficult match up for Floyd. If the shot version of Oscar that Floyd fought almost beat him, Prime Oscar would win comfortably. Floyd would make it difficult, have his moments, and take over late, but would come up just short against the bigger man.
8. Prime Mosley: This is a great fight at lightweight. Mosely attacks the body and stays with Floyd through 8 rounds. Floyd's discipline and brilliance in the ring takes over in the championship rounds for a close win.
9. Prime Pac Man: just to please all of the fans who had to wait 5 years too long/late. Closer fight with same result. Floyd still too big and too good to lose to a guy who started at flyweight.
10. Alexis Arguello: Long, lean, classic boxer vs phenom master boxer. Exciting fight throughout, but Floyd proves too good and takes the win.


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