From the time I started as the boxing writer at USA Today in early 2000 until leaving ESPN in April 2020, I was responsible for compiling divisional rankings for each outlet. At USA Today, I updated the rankings once a month until leaving in early 2005. At some point during my time at ESPN they became weekly, but I had not done any divisional rankings until I recently did an updated top 10 heavyweights and then welterweights last week. The reader reaction was overwhelming, which I appreciate. I figured why not keep it going, so here are updated rankings for the hot junior lightweight division.
Has anyone seen this kid Frank Martin. He's a scary 130 pound version of Jaron "Boots" Enis. A future champion for sure. You better tell somebody, I just did!!
I not sure how the come up with this but it realy needs to be revaluated. No way Shakur is below Farmer with 5 loses or Valdez when he been chasing him to fight for yrs
I agree 100% on your list. Can you imagine a prime Duran at light weight fighting these guys. 10 years Duran held the light weight title. Then moved up to beat a prime Leonard. But he was smart. Taking fights in the welters to grow into to and adapt to the weight. By the time he fought Leonard, he had his speed, and power. Something Hearns should have done before fighting Hagler.
Now we just need the Friday chats
Would beat Gutierrez if they fought. Make it happen captain!
Frank's just 13-0 (10) KO's, but I guarantee he would be that number 10 fighter Guit
Has anyone seen this kid Frank Martin. He's a scary 130 pound version of Jaron "Boots" Enis. A future champion for sure. You better tell somebody, I just did!!
Santa Cruz must be there rather than the unknown guys
A good division - would make a really good WBSS tournament.
Good ratings. Stevenson upset not in ESPN top 10 but whose he beaten?
I not sure how the come up with this but it realy needs to be revaluated. No way Shakur is below Farmer with 5 loses or Valdez when he been chasing him to fight for yrs
Man i miss these rankings and breakdowns thanks Dan
I agree 100% on your list. Can you imagine a prime Duran at light weight fighting these guys. 10 years Duran held the light weight title. Then moved up to beat a prime Leonard. But he was smart. Taking fights in the welters to grow into to and adapt to the weight. By the time he fought Leonard, he had his speed, and power. Something Hearns should have done before fighting Hagler.
Can't really argue with that list, Valdez is clearly No.1 and is the actual reigning Super Featherweight World Champion