I'd say Ray Robinson was the best ever. From a kid tap dancing on street corners for coins, to dominating world boxing. Such a shame there's no footage of RR in his prime. Angelo Dundee said there was nobody better on the rope, i'm sure his talent as a dancer helped. For me Jouis Louis was the best heavyweight but have no problem with people saying Ali, it's all subjective and I get why. We also forget this was a time when fighters would go at it for 15 rnds, unbelievable when you think about it.
My boxing hero is Rocky Marciano, a guy who relied on his punch, his relentless stamina and granite jaw. Dundee said his close friend Charley Goldman (RM trainer) asked him down to the gym to check this kid out on the bag. Charley told Dundee he had no boxing skills, no footwork or balance, but he could punch. Marciano was born in an era when the division wasn't at its strongest, but
he could only fight the best at this time, the smallest reach of any heavyweight so had to get in close to use his power. He distanced himself from the mafia and was ripped off by his manager Al Weill. The term 'great white hope' never went down well, his boxing hero was Joe Louis. Joe was over the hill when Rocky put him through the ropes in the 8th, Louis was broke and asked Marciano for the fight, he obliged knowing he would also raise his profile. After the fight, Marciano cried all the way back to the dressing room, knowing he'd just ended his heroes career. When Rocky died, Joe Louis said, 'god took the best when he took Rocky Marciano'. Not sure if he meant best as a boxer, or best as a person. He retired having beaten the best at that time, he was also able to end his sour relationship with Al Weill. He said if Jouis Louis couldn't make a successful return to the ring then neither could he. Rocky finished his career unbeaten, you can't do anymore than that.
apologies for any bold txt, shite phone.