There is no distinct line to separate those two as one blends into the other as a natural progression. It could be argued that you are a little green until you hit your prime. Then, you have guys like Floyd who gave some of his best fights pre-prime, even though he became technically more sound later on.
I think Canelo is just coming into his prime now and was still a bit green when he fought May. A lot of the mistakes he was making were things he got away with because he never had to come to terms with them. That loss/clowning caused him to buckle down and really grow as a fighter. Look at the fights before Mayweather vs after and there is a marked difference in his ring IQ and general behavior. No more hesitation/waiting. He can actively pursue in an effective way.
Doesn't mean it wasn't a legit win for May or that Canelo would beat him now. I don't know why people are so insecure with the idea that Canelo has improved since Mayweather. At the time, it was still a great fight for Money to take. Canelo being better now doesn't threaten May's legacy.
I just disagree that boxers go from being green to being in their prime. There is definitely a stage in between that as guys just keep fighting and improving... until they reach their professional peak.
Tweet
Comment