Pernell Whitaker, best in the past 30 years?

[DeeMoney]

Its a sad day today with Sweet Pea's untimely passing, it got me to thinking- was Pernell Whitaker the best fighter of the past 30 years? Let me first define best in this case: highest performing peak stretch. I get that lots of times people point to resume, or accumulated accolades, but I am simply stating who (in a relative P4P sense) was the best fighter of the past 30 years.

If we look back to '89 (30 years ago) the 4 kings had either retired or were past their primes. So I think the other names who can make an argument here are Floyd, RJJ, Manny and maybe Chavez, maybe Holyfield (the CW and early heavy version), and I'll say maybe Finito because I am such a big fan.

Was prime Pea the best of this time, or was there someone better?

[RespekonMyName]

Its a sad day today with Sweet Pea's untimely passing, it got me to thinking- was Pernell Whitaker the best fighter of the past 30 years? Let me first define best in this case: highest performing peak stretch. I get that lots of times people point to resume, or accumulated accolades, but I am simply stating who (in a relative P4P sense) was the best fighter of the past 30 years.

If we look back to '89 (30 years ago) the 4 kings had either retired or were past their primes. So I think the other names who can make an argument here are Floyd, RJJ, Manny and maybe Chavez, maybe Holyfield (the CW and early heavy version), and I'll say maybe Finito because I am such a big fan.

Was prime Pea the best of this time, or was there someone better?

I'd put him right behind RJJ and Floyd, but above Manny. I think Manny, as great as he was, is a tier below those guys.

[johnbook]

Since his 1st 2 losses were robberies, he's on par with RJJ and far above Floyd.

He was a joy to watch. Recall prime Oscar throwing must've been 10 punches and he dodged them all.

While everyone is writing about his defense, he could pop hard when he wanted to.

[QueensburyRules]

- -Joy to watch when he fought, but no pop prob the reason he resorted to clowning.

Best fight against Roger Mayweather won he not only clowned by spinning him to pull his trunks down, yet BTFO him. Even then late he had to hang on after Rog almost KOed him.

Top ten of the last 30 yrs, but manny's p4p and division records will never be broken, a clear #1.

[Mooshashi]

Geez I didn't know he died. He has to be up there top 10-20 all time I believe. His losses were either robberies or very close. Beat very good boxers. Beautiful boxing skills. Only 55yrs old RIP.

[Offic.Scorecard]

Whitaker was great, may he rest in peace, but Pacquiao was the best.

[QueensburyRules]

- -More here:

https://www.boxingscene.com/pernell-...-beach--140882

[Affogato`]

Sweet pea was great

sadly , a lot of casuals don't like his style that's why he got robbed .

[billeau2]

The Pea was one of a handful and yes he got robbed. I don't like labels like the best, but if we take a category of the best fighters he belongs in it. One of my favorites. Exposed Chavez imo.

[The Old LefHook]

Mostly boring to watch but the best pure technical boxer since Benitez. Too bad he had mediocre power.