The Greatest Welsh Boxer of All Time: Joe Wilde vs Joe Calzaghe
When discussing the best boxers from Wales, opinions often center around Joe Calzaghe. However, in this article, we will explore the case for Joe Wilde, who many believe deserves to be remembered as the greatest Welsh boxer of all time. While Calzaghe's record is impressive, Joe Wilde's achievements and the impact he had on the sport are equally, if not more, remarkable.
Joe Calzaghe: An Outstanding Pianist in the Ring
Joe Calzaghe's record of 46-0 with 32 knockouts and his reputation as one of Britain's finest boxers is undeniably impressive. Trained by his father, Enzo, the southpaw has been a star in Welsh boxing history. His unbeaten career and the rich reward of holding the WBO title for over 10 years during his reign speak volumes about his abilities in the ring. Calzaghe's biggest victory is often cited as his 12-round defeat of Jeff Lacy.
Despite the accolades, Calzaghe's career was not without its share of missed opportunities. His decision to retire on a good record and his time spent sitting on a world title, as advised by Frank Warren, is often criticized. This choice is seen as a missed opportunity to challenge for more world titles.
The Undisputed Champion: Joe Wilde
While Joe Calzaghe has his admirers, the argument for Joe Wilde is compelling. Known as "The Tylorstown Terror," Wilde's legacy is second to none. During his career, he amassed 131 wins, 98 of which came by knock-out. This performance puts him close to joining the exclusive club of world champions with over a century of knockouts. Notable members of this club include Sandy Saddler, Sugar Ray Robinson, Archie Moore, and Sam Langford. Wilde achieved these figures through official stats, with some estimates suggesting a fight count of between 500 and 700 bouts.
Wilde was not only a formidable fighter but also a living legend. He won his first world title as the first universally recognized flyweight champion and successfully defended the title after losing it. Most impressively, he achieved the longest winning streak in boxing history with 104 consecutive victories.
Remarkable Achievements and Endurance
Wilde's devastating power and endurance made him a force to be reckoned with. Despite being a flyweight, he often took on opponents from higher weight divisions, including bantamweights and featherweights, and succeeded in knocking them out. His determination and resilience were unmatched. For instance, he defeated Joe Lynch, one of the most durable bantamweight world champions, and lost only a dubious decision to bantamweight title challenger Jackie Sharkey. His battle with Pete Herman, one of the top two or three bantamweights of all time, is a testament to his capability. Herman, weighing about 15 pounds more, knocked Wilde out in the 17th round, but Wilde's defeat was considered honorable given the weight difference.
Wilde's power was so incomprehensible that medical professionals studied him to understand how such a small and seemingly frail man could produce such bone-wrecking force. It was simply something he was born with.
When comparing Wilde to other great boxers, it's evident that he ranks highly in the pound-for-pound category. Ring Magazine placed him third as the best puncher of all time, behind Mike Tyson, Earnie Shavers, George Foreman, and Sugar Ray Robinson. Every serious list of great flyweights places Wilde at the top, with no debate.
Conclusion: A Dispute Between Titans
While Joe Calzaghe is undoubtedly a modern icon in Welsh boxing, Joe Wilde's historical significance and extensive achievements position him as the greatest boxer Wales has ever produced. His remarkable record, the lengths he went to prove his dominance, and his place in boxing history solidify his status as a true legend. The debate between these two boxing greats is a testament to the rich boxing legacy of Wales.
Keywords: Welsh boxer, Joe Wilde, Joe Calzaghe, greatest boxer