From the time I started working as the boxing writer at USA Today in early 2000 until leaving ESPN in April 2020, one of my responsibilities was to provide 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 a few days ago when I did an updated top 10 heavyweights. The reader reaction was overwhelming, which I very much appreciate. So, I figured why not keep it going with updated rankings in one of boxing’s best and most popular divisions, the welterweights.
The only problem I have with this list is that 9 out of 10 fighters next opponent is listed as TBA. There are so many great fights to be made, but red tape is preventing us from knowing the true rankings.
There is no number one, its either Crawford or Spence and its hard to split the 2. Spence's resume at 147lbs is better but Crawford's is better overall and its not his fault he cant get opponents in the ring with him. Finally i'd add some of Spence's comments on purse splits go beyond ego or greed but sound more like evasion. Hopefully this fight is made for the first month that we get herd immunity and fans are allowed back into stadiums. Fingers crossed Top rank and PBC get their act together and the bout we all want happens this summer.
Hard to see Spence over Crawford, but I understand the logic with Spence having a little better resumé. I know! They should have a boxing match and settle it in the ring! What a novel idea.
Crawford should be number1 that's why they all avoiding him at all costs mean machine would beat porter and buds opposition only looked weak because he is really good time will prove me 100% correct
The only problem I have with this list is that 9 out of 10 fighters next opponent is listed as TBA. There are so many great fights to be made, but red tape is preventing us from knowing the true rankings.
Sir MR. RAFAEL You were the only reason I use to visit espn. Always classy and highly knowledgeable.
As usual, another spot on top 10. What are your thoughts of any of these 10, beating a prime Leonard, Hearns, Duran, Mosely, or Dela Hoya?
Another awesome ranking.. hopefully the top 3 will fight soon
I agree on your list. Would love to see Ennis vs spence.
There is no number one, its either Crawford or Spence and its hard to split the 2. Spence's resume at 147lbs is better but Crawford's is better overall and its not his fault he cant get opponents in the ring with him. Finally i'd add some of Spence's comments on purse splits go beyond ego or greed but sound more like evasion. Hopefully this fight is made for the first month that we get herd immunity and fans are allowed back into stadiums. Fingers crossed Top rank and PBC get their act together and the bout we all want happens this summer.
Hard to see Spence over Crawford, but I understand the logic with Spence having a little better resumé. I know! They should have a boxing match and settle it in the ring! What a novel idea.
I agree
Top 9 'Next': TBA. And yet promoters/broadcasters tell us that boxing has never been in better health...
Great to see the Rankings back Dan!
Lipinets certainly not top 10 material. Clayton won and is still unable to get a follow up fight
Mike Tyson vs Spence. 200 oz gloves.
Boots Ennis is about to climb his way up this list fast...starting April 10th after he beats Lipinets
Bud Crawford will smoke Spence and makes it look easy.
Thanks for this Dan. What other divisions are you considering doing rankings for?
Crawford should be number1 that's why they all avoiding him at all costs mean machine would beat porter and buds opposition only looked weak because he is really good time will prove me 100% correct