Anticipation for the Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford Match
As anticipation builds for the much-anticipated boxing match between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford this weekend at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, ESPN recently released its controversial list of the finest fighters since the year 2000. This list has ignited heated discussions among boxing aficionados, primarily over whether Floyd Mayweather or Manny Pacquiao deserves the top spot.
Debate Over Rankings
Commentators like Max Kellerman and Ryan Garcia have thrown their support behind Pacquiao, arguing for his edge in the pound-for-pound (P4P) debate. However, they may be missing the broader criteria ESPN utilized in its rankings, which considers achievements, fight IQ, and overall influence in the sport, in which Mayweather’s accomplishments stand peerless.
Kellerman remarked, “When compiling a list of the top 25 fighters of this century, it’s challenging to see Roy Jones Jr. listed at number nine, as much of his prominence came in the 1990s. I do take issue with the ranking—fighting with Mayweather having defeated Pacquiao could have impacted the outcome of this list. While I concede Mayweather is undoubtedly among the elite P4P fighters in history, I cannot place him above Pacquiao.
Pacquiao’s legacy as a multi-weight champion who fought and defeated notable opponents is undeniable. His ability to face all challengers showcases greatness similar to that of Sugar Ray Robinson, and in my opinion, Pacquiao remains unmatched on the P4P scale.
To which Garcia responded, “I’ve always regarded Pacquiao highly, but Mayweather’s P4P dominance and versatility throughout various weight classes is unprecedented. His knockout victories over esteemed fighters like Cotto and Hatton illustrate his talent. I’ve always admired him, but to me, Pacquiao ultimately holds the higher distinction.”
Floyd Mayweather’s Legacy
Floyd Mayweather, often labeled as the epitome of boxing, transitioned from his earlier persona as Pretty Boy to taking on the Money moniker, redefining the sport with his unmatched defensive skills, footwork, and counterpunches. With an impeccable career record of 50 wins and no losses between 2000 to 2017, he established himself as a premier athlete, earning the title of the highest-paid athlete multiple times while amassing five world titles across different divisions.
