Independence Day commemorates America’s declaration as a new nation.
While the United States isn’t as regarded in producing “pure boxing” talent like that of Cuba or other nations rich in amateur boxing pedigree, the U.S. has pumped out its fair share of superb stylists.
A pure boxer is hard to define, one of those Rashomon-like words that can mean just about anything you want it to. So let’s make clear what it’s not first. A pure boxer is not a brawler or a swarmer, it’s not a potshotter who relies on landing one big punch and this writer doesn’t like the idea that “pure boxing” has become equivalent to simply a defensive-minded fighter.
Pugilism is the tragic art of hitting and not being hit. So the men that follow have mastered the offensive side of the sport as much as they have the defensive part.
Only the retired were considered and to spread some of the limelight around, the Sugars, Ray Robinson and Leonard, have been omitted.
Happy Fourth of July.
