Does a fighter's prime change depending on the weight class?

[Jambo]

I think the only difference is between Heavyweights and the rest. I’m not sure a fighter’s peak would change much generally. They all have to keep their reflexes and make weight etc. And everyone has a “fighting weight.”
But the heavy guys don’t rely on reflexes as much and don’t have to boil down to make weight. And also , it’s debatable, but I reckon that as a Heavyweight gets older, his power and punch resistance improve, and that would compensate a bit for any loss of speed.

[Alpha]

I think style and technique come into play as well. A fighter who relies on reflexes and speed will suffer as they age more so than a fighter with good fundamentals.

[NoSavingByTheBell]

I think style and technique come into play as well. A fighter who relies on reflexes and speed will suffer as they age more so than a fighter with good fundamentals.

makes you appreciate Ali for how he succeeded in his 2nd career.

[Alpha]

I think style and technique come into play as well. A fighter who relies on reflexes and speed will suffer as they age more so than a fighter with good fundamentals.

makes you appreciate Ali for how he succeeded in his 2nd career.

And guys like Hopkins.

[TitoFan]

All very good points indeed.

However, the fact remains that a 43-year old heavyweight is considered to be at the tail end of his career... but very much live.

A 43-year lightweight is sitting at home reminiscing about the good ol' days.

[imp]

Wonder if Loma and his prime will change at 135 this weekend.

It’s not his weight class, but like Floyd and Pac his skills make that adjustment.