20.02.07 – By James Slater: Everyone knows, or at least has a good idea, who the ten best fighters in the world are today – pound -4-pound. The usual names are nominally listed. Guys called Pacquaio, Wright, Mayweather, Barrera and the rest are ubiquitously put into print. But what about the best of an individual nation? In the case of this article the British nation? As a change of pace, I list here my ten choices for the best Brit fighters currently plying their trade.
1. Joe Calzaghe – Super middleweight
Why argue? Wales’ finest has yet to lose a pro fight, has whupped some top names in his time – including Lacy, Eubank, Mitchell, Brewer and Reid – and is now finally getting the respect he deserves. I’m not going to spoil the Brit party either. Expect wins, by KO, over Manfredo AND Taylor to be his soon, and you cannot argue Joe is THE best we have in Britain right now.
2. Clinton Woods – Light heavyweight
Woods’ name may come as a surprise to some readers, not least those who are expecting the name of Ricky Hatton to be here. But Woods, with his sheer toughness, durability and quality of opposition, should, in my opinion be rated just above Manchester’s finest. Great wins over men named Johnson, Gonzalez and Hoye simply cannot be underestimated. Clinton is the best light heavy in the world right now – according to this writer anyway.
3. Ricky Hatton – Light welterweight
“The Hitman” has yet to be beaten, has nullified a giant of the sport in Kostya Tszyu and has also bested quality fighters such as Carlos Maussa, Juan Urango and Luis Collazo. Next up is Mexican great Joes Luis Castillo, and Ricky’s sheer competitiveness looks sure to be tested there. In short, you can’t fault Hatton’s quality of opponent. He has now won three world titles, two at different weights. Argue with that, critics!
4. Junior Witter – Light welterweight
Hatton’s greatest domestic rival, Witter holds the prestigious WBC belt. Junior also has wins to his credit over good fighters such as DeMarcus Corley and Lovemore Ndou, victories that should make clear to anyone his genuine world class. Forget the points loss to Zab Judah, that was seven years ago and Witter is a much improved operator these days.
5. Enzo Maccarinelli – Cruiserweight
The awesome punching cruiserweight is a threat to ANYONE. Of that there should be no mistake. The frightening power in the fists of the Welshman should garner respect from any 200 pound fighter in the world, regardless of who they are. Look for 2007 to be Enzo’s breakthrough year on the global scene.
6. Carl Johanneson – Super featherweight
The name may not be familiar to some, but Carl “Ingemar” Johanneson is a dead-cert to wrap a world title belt around his waist as soon as he’s given the opportunity. Carl has amazing stamina and work rate, and is now beginning to collect titles just below the world stage. Watch him go up a level very, very soon.
The Next Four:
7. David Haye – Cruiserweight
Spectacular punching cruiserweight. Aside from his chin, has no discernible weaknesses.
8. Michael Sprott – Heavyweight
Never mind his spectacular KO over under achiever Audley Harrison. Sprott has shown his ability before and is as tough as they come. Willing to fight abroad, Michael just might win the big one this year.
9. Matt Skelton – Heavyweight
Another British Heavyweight, Matt has almost freakish strength and unlimited stamina. Already owns a win over the guy rated above him on this list.
10. Carl Froch – Super middleweight
THE best prospect at super middleweight. Possesses single punch power, strength, quickness and awesome self assurance. Watch him make his mark in 2007.