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Despite Making Billions Combined in Their Career, Floyd Mayweather, Canelo Alvarez, Manny Pacquiao, and Oscar de la Hoya Snubbed to Give the “Legends” Crown to ‘The Four Kings’ of Boxing

Published 06/03/2023, 2:58 PM EDT

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In the hallowed annals of boxing, there exists an age-old debate that has once again sparked into a wildfire, thanks to a tantalizing question posed by ‘Real Boxing Knowledge 2’ on their Facebook page. They ushered us into a time machine, comparing two illustrious eras that have defined boxing history. On one side, we have the glitzy Floyd Mayweather Era, boasting of its flamboyant knights: Floyd Mayweather himself, Canelo Alvarez, Manny Pacquiao, and Oscar De La Hoya. Together, they have hauled in billions, transforming boxing into a lucrative global spectacle.

In the opposing corner stands the revered Sugar Ray Leonard Era, featuring the legendary ‘Four Kings‘: Sugar Ray Robinson, Roberto Duran, Tommy Hearns, and Marvin Hagler. These titans echo a time when boxing was less about razzmatazz and more about raw prowess and fighting spirit.

These two groups stand as the embodiments of different epochs, symbolizing different values and achievements. Yet, a question hangs heavy over the boxing world: Which of these groups truly accomplished more in the sport? Odd as it may seem, could it be possible that the ones who made billions, also be the ones who didn’t wear the “Legends” crown? Buckle up, for we are about to delve into a discourse that will challenge your perception of greatness in boxing.

Fan reactions: Revering legends over billionaires

As the discussion ensued on the digital platform, boxing aficionados expressed their views, each providing unique insights on this intriguing comparison.

Reginald Green weighed in with his perspective, observing that “Group 1 made more money. But group 2 was the best era – they came to fight.”

Adding to the narrative, Elder Darnell Williams-Pullen reminded us of the historical influence the ‘Four Kings’ had on the sport. He noted, “Group 2 paved the way for the First Group. Sugar Ray was the first to show how to make millions at a lighter weight class.”

FreshWater Banks approached the debate with a critical lens towards modern-day boxing, expressing that “No need to ask. The bottom didn’t duck, dodge or have fight clauses. And they definitely didn’t fight b*ms on Pay-per-view.”

王元 lauded the prowess of ‘The Four Kings,’ asserting, “The four kings easily. They’re in an entirely different league. If we consider Canelo, De La Hoya, Mayweather, and Pacquiao as great fighters, the four Kings would be legends. That’s how great they were.”

Watch this story: Real reason why Bugatti and Ferrari blacklisted Mayweather

Lastly, Danny Williams drew parallels with the perennial sports debate in basketball. He declared, “Group 2 hands down. Kinda like saying LeBron is better than Jordan was… it just ain’t so.”

Claressa Shields Comparing Herself With Muhammad Ali and Floyd Mayweather Leaves Boxing World in Splits

Now, we throw the gloves into your corner. What’s your take on this debate? Do you echo the sentiments of these fans, or do you think the Mayweather Era champions deserve the ‘Legends’ crown? Your perspective is the next round in this ongoing match. Let’s keep the conversation alive.

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Written by:

Mrinal Mishra

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Mrinal Mishra is a Boxing writer at EssentiallySports, who is dedicated to covering live events with a special emphasis on influencer boxing events. With a focus on storytelling, Mishra strives to bring to light the stories of fighters that often go untold. As a big fan of Mike Tyson, Mishra believes that boxing will remain relevant for eternity, and he is committed to covering the sport with the respect and admiration it deserves.
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Edited by:

Arijit Saha