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by David P. Greisman - Nonito Donaire had belonged there in New York City, standing on the stage at the Capitale in Lower Manhattan, recognized last Thursday as the best fighter of 2012 by the Boxing Writers Association of America.
And he also belonged, two nights later, in a boxing ring set up on the stage at Radio City Music Hall, just north of Times Square, headlining a major boxing card and appearing in the main event of an HBO broadcast.
But being the best fighter in a given year does not necessarily make a boxer superior to his rivals. The award is based on accomplishments, on the résumé compiled within a 12-month span. It is an honor bestowed for what has happened in the past — not at all a promise of what is to come.
“You are only as good as your last fight.” It is a cliché, but many clichés are grounded in truth, idioms that become axioms.
Donaire was the best boxer last year. That meant little last Saturday, when Guillermo Rigondeaux proved himself to be far better.
That shouldn’t lead to a conclusion that Donaire had been overrated. He was deserving of his ranking — and in a sport where rankings mean little if those rated below you are of questionable quality, Donaire was also deserving of respect. His victories in 2012 did not come against great opponents, but they were good wins nonetheless. [Click Here To Read More]
And he also belonged, two nights later, in a boxing ring set up on the stage at Radio City Music Hall, just north of Times Square, headlining a major boxing card and appearing in the main event of an HBO broadcast.
But being the best fighter in a given year does not necessarily make a boxer superior to his rivals. The award is based on accomplishments, on the résumé compiled within a 12-month span. It is an honor bestowed for what has happened in the past — not at all a promise of what is to come.
“You are only as good as your last fight.” It is a cliché, but many clichés are grounded in truth, idioms that become axioms.
Donaire was the best boxer last year. That meant little last Saturday, when Guillermo Rigondeaux proved himself to be far better.
That shouldn’t lead to a conclusion that Donaire had been overrated. He was deserving of his ranking — and in a sport where rankings mean little if those rated below you are of questionable quality, Donaire was also deserving of respect. His victories in 2012 did not come against great opponents, but they were good wins nonetheless. [Click Here To Read More]
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