rewrite this content and keep HTML tags
Boxing fans love to see highlight-reel KOs, but those who appreciate pugilistic art will talk about how their favourite fighter won his biggest fight via unanimous decision, with a mix of accuracy and slick movement. Here, we bring you three fighters with impressive records without knockout power.
Three Fighters With Impressive Fight Records but No Real Knockout Power
Chris Byrd
Chris Byrd (41-5-1, 22 KOs) turned professional in 1993 against Gary Smith, winning by unanimous decision. There were several eye-catching early KOs before the level of competition increased. Despite the KOs drying up as his career progressed, Byrd showcased exceptional defence, enabling him to avoid many powerful punches from opponents. This was the kind of pugilistic mastery often discussed by fans when using betting portals for all sports.
His first defeat came in 1999 against the big-punching Ike Ibeabuchi. Three more losses followed, largely due to Byrd’s exceptional movement slowing down as he got older. While he lacked significant knockout power, Byrd competed at the highest level, defeating David Tua and Evander Holyfield, among others.
Ivan Calderón
Ivan Calderón (35-3-1, 6 KOs) made his professional debut in 2001, defeating Sergio Diaz by first-round TKO. The Puerto Rican maestro was known for his speed, movement and defensive acumen.
Calderón was a two-division world champion, defeating Eduardo Ray Marquez to win the minimumweight crown. He later beat Hugo Fidel Cazares to win the light flyweight title. His boxing IQ and exceptional defensive skills ensured he was one of the toughest to beat.
Devin Haney
Moving to the present, Devin Haney (32-0, 15 KOs) is the next fighter on our list with an impressive record, but no noticeable knockout power. Haney has held multiple world titles in two different weight classes, including becoming the undisputed champion at lightweight.
His most notable wins have come against Vasyl Lomachenko and Regis Prograis, before his highly controversial no-contest against Ryan Garcia. “The Dream” takes on a huge challenge on November 22, when he meets current WBO welterweight world champion Brian Norman Jr.
Haney is normally known for his excellent jab, which controls the distance and allows him to dictate fights. He has also shown an impressive ability to make his opponents miss, a key attribute that abandoned him against Garcia. Haney has not scored a stoppage win since defeating Zaur Abdullaev. These boxers have entertained fans with their ring IQ rather than thrilling them with knockout wins. All three deserve their flowers when discussing boxing legacies.
