Could a modern boxer beat one of the Early C20th?

[kayjay]

Different guys would succeed. Fast but fragile fighters like Mayweather and Calzaghe (even Jones) could have been average in the old days (frequency of fights being the main reason). Conversely some oldtimers couldn't hack it in today's scene

[duffgun]

I like Ketchel I got a few of his fights on DVD he had great power for his size.

[The Victim]

...agreed witt most of u...since overtime everything will improve in all areas of life...science/medical, art, music, automobiles, etc. u name it.

[them_apples]

boxers have only gotten better, fighters like may weather and Marquez just go to show how technically superior fighters have become.

The only thing we can judge is speed and accuracy, both which have improved greatly.

You will always have your freaks though, which is why they stand out (ali, tyson, Jones jr)

[TBear]

Watching Jess Willard walk in with his hands at his side winging punches without technique does not necesarily say much. He doesn't jab or keep his guard up. His was an era where the toughest SOB in the house wins.