I watched the Johnson/Jones fight with a keen interest. I've also watched Tyson fights and it feels like RJJ is just a step or two behind Mike. RJJ and MT were devastating fighters in their prime; no doubt about that. Fight fans find it hard to believe that fighters of such caliber just don't have it anymore; even though you continue to watch--in hopes of seeing that flash of brilliance--one more time. It's like any addiction...just one more time, please! I have felt RJJ's ego was growing larger than his talent and that his ego outlasted his talent, of late. Several fights ago, the same with Tyson. Although, Tyson is a whole different argument. Mike cast away his talent. Nothing more, nothing less. Tyson, on more than one occasion could have solidified his place in boxing history (some may say he has) only to shame it away by being a childish punk. Cus D'mato has more than rolled in his grave. I'd give Cus Olympic tens for his backflips. RJJ's gangsta-rappa/pretty-boy/i'm-invicible image has become his obsession; and it's finally caught up with him. His pre-occupation has come with a price...solidifying his place in boxing history. Too many in the crew and too many yes-men telling both fighters what they want to hear. It's a damn shame.
posted by Kimmer at 12:23 AM on September 28, 2004
End of an era?
I watched the Johnson/Jones fight with a keen interest. I've also watched Tyson fights and it feels like RJJ is just a step or two behind Mike. RJJ and MT were devastating fighters in their prime; no doubt about that. Fight fans find it hard to believe that fighters of such caliber just don't have it anymore; even though you continue to watch--in hopes of seeing that flash of brilliance--one more time. It's like any addiction...just one more time, please! I have felt RJJ's ego was growing larger than his talent and that his ego outlasted his talent, of late. Several fights ago, the same with Tyson. Although, Tyson is a whole different argument. Mike cast away his talent. Nothing more, nothing less. Tyson, on more than one occasion could have solidified his place in boxing history (some may say he has) only to shame it away by being a childish punk. Cus D'mato has more than rolled in his grave. I'd give Cus Olympic tens for his backflips. RJJ's gangsta-rappa/pretty-boy/i'm-invicible image has become his obsession; and it's finally caught up with him. His pre-occupation has come with a price...solidifying his place in boxing history. Too many in the crew and too many yes-men telling both fighters what they want to hear. It's a damn shame.