Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach has seen it all in boxing, leading and witnessing greatness from the corner of the ring after his own 53-fight career.
Roach’s name is synonymous with Manny Pacquiao’s, and it’s no wonder – their work together has set records in a sport that is secure from any danger.
However, he managed to corner many other extraordinary talents, including Miguel Cotto, Bernard Hopkins, Oscar De La Hoya, Steve Collins and Amir Khan.
The 65-year-old considers James Toney the most naturally talented player he has coached, and in an interview with Ring Observerhe even went as far as to say that “Lights Out” has what it takes to be the best ever.
“He’s one of the best fighters in the world. He would just naturally go in there, figure out his opponent and take him apart. Great boxer.
“[If he had the discipline of Hopkins and Pacquiao] we would call him the greatest warrior today. He was a great warrior. However, if he put all his heart and skills into it, he would be the best.
Toney built his career on technique, timing and defensive control. After turning professional in 1988, he won the IBF middleweight title in 1991, defeating Michael Nunn at the end. This fight cemented his ability to adapt under pressure.
After five defenses of the belt, he moved to super middleweight, where he again became the IBF champion by defeating Iran Barkley. Toney’s rivalry with Mike McCallum, especially their first meeting, saw some of the most technically advanced boxing of the era.
In 1994, “Lights Out” suffered the first defeat of its campaign to the quick hands of Roy Jones Jr. However, he later won the world cruiserweight title before moving up to heavyweight and defeating John Ruiz for the WBA belt, but the decision was overturned after a failed drug test.
In 92 fights, Toney was never stopped, which is why he is known as one of the best defensive fighters of all time, characterized by, of course, exceptional durability. Roach and others highlighted the somewhat indifferent attitude that held Toney back, and fans will always wonder what more he could have achieved if that had actually been the case.