Boxing, the “sweet science,” has a fair share of incredible boxers, who each dominated their respective weight divisions. Join me on a journey throughout the boxing history as go into the lives and careers of the greatest boxers in each weight division.
The best of the best in each weight division
1. Heavyweight Division: Muhammad Ali (1960-1981)
Record
56 wins (37 KOs), 5 losses
Muhammed Ali and his story
Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Clay, is the undisputed heavyweight champion of all time. His legendary bouts against Joe Frazier and George Foreman, notably the “Fight of the Century” and the “Rumble in the Jungle,” will forever be remembered. Ali’s unique blend of charisma, agility, and in-ring brilliance earned him global fame, making him an icon of the 20th century. He was also a big shot outside the ring, which has given him the “GOAT”-status.
Other Contenders for this category
The other contenders for the spot as the best heavyweight is, in my opinion: Joe Louis, Mike Tyson, Rocky Marciano
Muhammed Ali’s best fight of all time
2. Light Heavyweight Division: Archie Moore (1936-1963)
Record
186 wins (132 KOs), 23 losses
Archie Moore And His Story
Archie Moore, the “Old Mongoose,” reigned over the light heavyweight division for over a decade. His incredible longevity and record-breaking number of knockouts earned him recognition as one of boxing’s all-time greats.
Other Contenders for this category
The other contenders for the spot as the best light heavyweight is, in my opinion: Bob Foster, Ezzard Charles, Roy Jones Jr.
Archie Moore’s Best Fight Of All Time
3. Middleweight Division: Sugar Ray Robinson (1940-1965)
Record
174 wins (109 KOs), 19 losses
Sugar Ray Robinson And His Story
Sugar Ray Robinson is an embodiment of boxing excellence. Initially a welterweight, Robinson moved up to dominate the middleweight division. His dazzling speed and ring power inspired the nickname “Sugar.”
Other Contenders For This Category
The other contenders for the spot as the best middleweight is, in my opinion: Marvin Hagler, Carlos Monzón, Bernard Hopkins
Sugar Ray Robinson’s Best Fight Of All Time
4. Welterweight Division: Sugar Ray Leonard (1977-1997)
Record
36 wins (25 KOs), 3 losses
Sugar Ray Leonard And His Story
Sugar Ray Leonard, following in Robinson’s footsteps, wowed fans with his electrifying style. His epic encounters with Thomas Hearns and Roberto Durán marked an era of unforgettable welterweight bouts.
Other Contenders For This Category
The other contenders for the spot as the best welterweight is, in my opinion: Thomas Hearns, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Roberto Durán
Sugar Ray Leonard’s Best Fight Of All Time
5. Lightweight Division: Roberto Durán (1968-2001)
Record
103 wins (70 KOs), 16 losses
Roberto Durán And His Story
Roberto Durán, known as “Hands of Stone,” was a force to be reckoned with in the lightweight division. His relentless aggression and explosive power made him one of the sport’s most feared fighters.
Other Contenders For This Category
The other contenders for the spot as the best lightweight is, in my opinion: Julio César Chávez, Benny Leonard, Juan Manuel Márquez
Roberto Durán’s Best Fight Of All Time
6. Featherweight Division: Willie Pep (1940-1966)
Record
229 wins (65 KOs), 11 losses
Willie Pep And His Story
Willie Pep, recognized for his extraordinary defensive skills, made a name for himself in the featherweight division. His elusive style earned him the nickname “Will o’ the Wisp.”
Other Contenders For This Category
The other contenders for the spot as the best featherweight is, in my opinion: Salvador Sánchez, Alexis Argüello, Érik Morales
Willie Pep’s Best Fight Of All Time
7. Bantamweight Division: Eder Jofre (1957-1976)
Record
72 wins (50 KOs), 2 losses
Eder Jofre And His Story
Eder Jofre, a Brazilian boxing legend, displayed exceptional prowess in the bantamweight division. His technical brilliance and precise punching made him a standout champion.
Other Contenders For This Category
The other contenders for the spot as the best bantamweight is, in my opinion: Manuel Ortiz, Orlando Canizales, Carlos Zárate
8. Flyweight Division: Pongsaklek Wonjongkam (1993-2011)
Record
87 wins (47 KOs), 5 losses
Pongsaklek Wonjongkam And His Story
Pongsaklek Wonjongkam from Thailand left an indelible mark on the flyweight division. His remarkable skills and enduring career cement his status as one of the greatest flyweights.
Other Contenders For This Category
The other contenders for the spot as the best flyweight is, in my opinion: Vic Darchinyan, Khaosai Galaxy, Mark “Too Sharp” Johnson
9. Minimumweight Division: Ricardo López (1985-2001)
Record
51 wins (38 KOs), 0 losses, 1 draw
Ricardo López And His Story
Ricardo López, a Mexican legend, stood out in the minimumweight division. Undefeated throughout his career, López was known for his boxing prowess and exceptional record.
Other Contenders For This Category
The other contenders for the spot as the best minimumweight is, in my opinion: Wanheng Menayothin, Chana Porpaoin, Eagle Kyowa
Final Thoughts – Impact On Boxing
In conclusion, each boxer representing their weight divisions, showcased extraordinary talent and determination. They provided moments of pure magic inside the ring and left a mark on the history of boxing. Whether it’s Ali, Robinson, or Durán, the legacy of these champions continues to inspire generations of boxing enthusiasts worldwide.