The Opponent
By Eddie Sanchez
The fight game is the ultimate life choice. There are levels to this lifestyle. Not every boxer who steps foot in the squared-circle has the opportunity to live life lavishly, let alone fight for a world title. For every Mayweather, there are hundreds of Broners. Industry-made stars who fade-out into the gate-keeper role.
That isn’t to say Broner’s career has been a waste. Although his opponents in title fights were lacking, he can walk away saying what only twenty people can, that he won World titles in four weight classes.
Despite the negative connotation as a gate-keeper, there is no shame with this classification. In fact, some of the most exciting boxers could be classified as gatekeepers; boxers who separate actual contenders from others who are merely a challenger. Jesus Soto Karass, Josesito Lopez and my personal favorite, Gabriel Rosado, are the epitome of a hard-out. Many times they have been chosen strategically as opponents to offer a specific challenge, but carry a defined weakness that a true contender should be able to navigate.
There is something special about these fighters. Like all who risk their health with the fight-game, they give it their all. For these guys though, it is more clearly visible. When Soto Karass beat the brakes off of Andre Berto, when Lopez made Victor Ortiz quit,or when Rosado was one of the only men who volunteered to fight a prime Golovkin, it was evident that despite their limitations, they have the heart of a champion and the skills to hold their own with anyone.
Fortunately for all of us fans, we were able to witness these triumphs on network television. The dedication they share for their craft has been represented and appreciated.
But what if I told you there are others out there who are not so visible to the common fan?
What if I told you there are fighters out there who grit and grind to come out as the loser, but not as someone who is defeated?
For all of the stars, challengers, gate-keepers and flameouts we see on TV, there are thousands tiers below. They simply become another name on a record.
One particular warrior that stands out amongst the crowd is Reggie Strickland, recognized as one of the losingests boxers in its lengthy history.
Reggie Strickland, from Cincinnati, fought professionally from 1987 to 2005. In his lengthy career, he fought 363 times and finished with a record of 66 wins, with 65 coming by way of knock-out, 276 losses, 17 draws and four that ended in no contest.
As evidence from his 98% knock-out rate in his fights where he was victorious, he packed a punch. This was a skill that helped keep fighters honest and along with his defensive style, helped as he searched for opportunities to fight. It was his limitations as a fighter provided the most opportunity.
The nature of the boxing industry is rough. Boxing is the only major sport that does not have a regulating body, and therefore, has been much more lenient with regards to fighter’s safety and checks and balances.
Reggie Strickland fought under a few alias’ to earn paydays. These included fighting as Reggie Buse and Reggie Ragland. With different sanctioning commissions in each state those similar to Reggie were able to finesse the system as they traveled frequently across borders to take on new opponents.
This practice actually helped steer federal law to require photo identification to receive a boxing license by the time his career was winding down.
As an honest man who was fighting to make a living, he took on all challenges and chased paychecks across the country. Throughout his career he also fought future world champions Tavoris Cloud, Randall Bailey, Cory Spinks, Raul Marquez and Keith Holmes. His dedication to his craft was no doubt tested many times throughout his career, but not to the point of abandoning his passion and livelihood.
The sweet science is fascinating. There are so many variables that lead to victory in a single fight and countless contributions to the makeup of the industry. The story of Reggie Strickland led to positive changes in regards to the health and safety of future fighters. He equally proves that not all W’s are equal. The men and women who dedicate their lives to the fight game deserve our respect. No matter their class and tier as a fighter, an opponent is also worthy of praise.
Let us know who your favorite fighters that can be classified as gate-keeper or the classic opponent.
