Rebuilding the Pound-for-Pound Rankings
The Ring’s recent update to their pound-for-pound (P4P) top 10 list has sparked considerable debate within the boxing community. While they have correctly maintained Oleksandr Usyk at the top spot, the list quickly descends into chaos as we move down the rankings. Naoya Inoue and Terence Crawford, occupying the second and third spots, respectively, stand out as particularly contentious choices. Their placement is questionable given the lack of significant quality wins in their recent records. In an effort to restore some clarity and fairness to the list, I propose a complete overhaul, starting by eliminating Inoue, Crawford, and a few others who do not meet the criteria for P4P greatness.
The Flaws in Current Rankings
Naoya Inoue’s best victory to date came against a 36-year-old Nonito Donaire, who was well past his prime. The fight was closer than anticipated, and some even argue that Inoue nearly lost. Similarly, his other notable wins have been against opponents like TJ Doheny and Ye Joon Kim, who are not exactly household names in the boxing world. This lesser list of opponents does not justify his lofty position on the P4P list.
Terence Crawford, while a talented fighter, has also seen a decline in the quality of his recent opponents. His avoidance of meaningful fights, especially at higher weights, calls into question his placement above more active and arguably more accomplished fighters. Dmitry Bivol, the unified light heavyweight champion, is another intriguing case. Bivol’s recent win over Artur Beterbiev is viewed by many as questionable, with some believing the victory was gifted rather than earned. Bivol’s fighting style is also often criticized as too dull and defensive, which further undermines his place on the list. Devin Haney, another name that needs to be removed, has not won a fight in two years and recently suffered a loss to Ryan Garcia. This inactivity and recent failure make him an unsuitable candidate for the P4P rankings.
The Right Guys at the Top
Oleksandr Usyk remains the undisputed #1 on the list for his consistent excellence and remarkable versatility. Usyk’s victories in both cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions, including his dominant performances against Anthony Joshua and Derek Chisora, showcase his unparalleled skill and adaptability. Canelo Alvarez, the second name on my list, is a deserving choice. His longevity, consistent high-level competition, and recent wins against the likes of Dmitry Bivol and Alexander Bexemple highlight his status as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.
Emerging Talent and Deserved Recognition
David Benavidee’s inclusion at the third spot is a nod to his recent triumph over David Morrell, a rising star in his own right. Benavidez’s unapologetic fighting style and sheer courage make him a compelling addition to the P4P list. His potential for a high-stakes rematch with Canelo at 168 pounds further cements his place among the elite. Jesse Rodriguez, with his impressive performances and youthful exuberance, deserves his spot at number four. His consistent wins and growing reputation as a formidable lightweight fighter are well-earned.
Jai Opetaia, the former IBF super middleweight champion, rounds out the top five with his relentless aggression and knockout power. His win over Caleb Plant, a significant victory in a close fight, shows his readiness for the upper echelons of boxing. Janibek Alimkhanuly, the WBA (Super) middleweight champion, follows closely, thanks to his exceptional skill and recent dominance over Jermall Charlo. His technical prowess and ability to control fights from a distance are undeniable.
The Middleweights and Lightweights
Gervonta Davis, the WBA (Regular) and IBF lightweight champion, secures the seventh spot on the list. Davis’s dynamic and exciting fighting style, coupled with his recent win over pData, has made him a fan favorite. His potential for a lucrative and thrilling rematch with Ryan Garcia only adds to his appeal.
Ryan Garcia, the ninth name on my list, has shown significant improvement and resilience. Despite his loss to Devin Haney, Garcia’s ability to bounce back and his exciting fighting style keep him in the conversation. His win over Floyd Mayweather Jr. in a recent exhibition match further underscores his star power. Rafael Espinoza, an under-the-radar super featherweight champion, deserves his spot at number eight. His dominance in the ring and the respect he commands from fellow fighters speak volumes about his talent.
The Contenders and the Future
Jaron Ennis, the final name on my list, is a promising welterweight fighter who has been making waves with his knockout power and technical skills. His recent win over Thomas Dulorme and his potential for a future big fight with Terence Crawford or Errol Spence Jr. make him a strong candidate for the P4P rankings.
By focusing on fighters who have consistently proven their mettle against top-tier opponents, my revised list aims to reflect the true parity and excellence in the sport of boxing. It’s essential to recognize not just the current champions but also those who have shown the heart, skill, and consistency to stand out in an ever-evolving landscape.
