Larry Holmes Critical of the Skills of Today’s Heavyweights!
Boxing legend and Hall of Famer Larry “The Easton Assassin” Holmes (69-6, 44KOs) was a big personality in the sport of boxing in his heyday. Always outspoken, that hasn’t changed much even in retirement. The all-time great former heavyweight champion, known for his piston-like jab, was recently interviewed. He was asked his thoughts on three of the top four heavyweights and their skills. His response, simply put, was blunt. Let’s just say he is not impressed with the abilities of today’s crop of heavyweights.
He told Fight Hub TV the following about what he feels Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder lack:
“They don’t have no skills. Listen, [lowers guard] they throw punches like this for a jab. You don’t throw punches like that. [extends straight jab from guard] Straight! Bang, bang with the jab. You got to have that out there like that, and guess what? You can’t hit me with the right hand, because this hand protects me. They don’t know how to throw a 1-2, bang, bang and get out, move out, protect yourself. You know what they have it, I had my day. I had a great time doing what I was doing.”
UNPOPULAR OPINION
Obviously many people hearing those comments will immediately disagree, for the most part. For one, WBC champion Tyson Fury is viewed as someone who could compete with a lot of the yesteryear’s great heavyweights. At 6’9, he’s nimble with good head movement, fundamentals and a good ring IQ. His size alone makes him very formidable. He is viewed as the best heavyweight today.
As for Joshua, he is a former unified champion and Olympic gold medalist with a solid skillset. His height, power and skills have led him to defeat every man he has faced as a professional minus Oleksandr Usyk. This includes avenging his first professional loss to Andy Ruiz with a clear victory in a rematch.
Last but not least is Wilder. The former WBC heavyweight champion is arguably the least skilled fighter of the three. However, he possesses decent skills and excellent athleticism to back up his bone-crushing right hand. His mental fortitude and will to push through adversity helped him defend his title ten times, before losing to Tyson Fury in consecutive fights.
At the end of the day, The Easton Assassin is entitled to his opinion. While today’s heavyweights aren’t what boxing fans and pundits are used to from past greats, they are solid fighters nonetheless.
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By: Jerrell Fletcher
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