Ricardo Lopez: An Under-Appreciated Boxing Legend
Posted on | May 31, 2007 | 2 Comments
Ricardo Lopez’ legacy: is it really respected?
By Matt Yanofsky
Both Espn.Com and Eastsideboxing.com have released recent all time pound for pound lists. While both lists factored in multiple eras—ranging from the time of Jack Johnson to today’s Floyd Mayweather—one of the most well rounded and dominant fighters of any generation were left off both lists. I have always been one to defend the lower weight class champions. Many of them don’t receive the recognition they deserve due primarily to a lack of TV exposure. US boxing fans don’t really follow the lighter weight classes, as American pugilists are rarely seen fighting under 126 lbs.
Ricardo “Finito” Lopez, the longtime Strawweight king who had an incredible 21 defenses of his title as well as three defenses against former champions as a Junior Flyweight has had his legacy altered by fans and analysts citing his weight class as the reason. Lopez was frequently featured on Don King’s Pay Per View undercards and did face quality champions: opponents such as Rosendo Alvarez, Alex Sanchez, Ratanapol Sor Vorapin, and Zolani Petelo. In addition, Ricardo Lopez is one of only a hand full of what I call 5 tool fighters {speed, power, chin, defense and boxing ability}.
During his title reign, the 2007 Hall of Fame inductee was ranked in the Ring Magazine’s top ten pound for pound fighters but never peaked in the top half. I find it amazing that a man who retired 51-0 and fought everyone put in front of him was stiffed even by the “bible of boxing”.
I argue that Lopez is not only one of the top three or four fighters in the last 20 years, but one of the greats of any era. I rank him in the top 20 all time regardless of his weight class. A fighter with the talent and accomplishments of Lopez made him truly a special fighter that rarely comes around. Writers, fans, and historians need to give him credit. Many of Lopez’ fights can be seen on youtube.com including his masterful performances against Saman Sorjaturong, Rocky Lin, and Alex Sanchez. Those who have never seen him fight before and are fortunate enough to watch the tapes will watch the jaw dropping ability of one of boxing’s underappreciated greats.