Quote:
Originally Posted by Antonin
The only world rankings I pay attention to are those by Ring Magazine. But even those can be regarded as tainted, since the magazine is owned by Oscar De La Hoya.
But they, at least, don't charge sanctioning fees or any such nonsense, as far as I know.
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The Ring Magazine ratings are still my favorite and the ones I pay the most attention to also.
The Ring Pound For Pound Ratings
They have some room for improvement though. I think the Ring ratings have a history of bias favoring the American fighters. Looking at the list of panelists, by my count about 30 of the 38 are from the United States.
About the Ring
If there is not a USA bias, with so many USA panelist it gives the impression that there easily could be. I'd like to see more of a representation from Mexico, South America, Africa, Europe, and Asia. Still, at least the Ring makes the information public and easily accessible regarding who determines the ratings and what the criteria is for being recognized as World Champion.
I hope that Oscar De La Hoya or Nigel Collins gets the Ring to change the belt itself. I love the history of the belt, but it has an exteme USA bias in appearance with the red, white, and blue stripes and American eagle sitting on top.
When Jack Dempsey was awarded the first Ring belt in the 1920's it was understandable to have the American Eagle and colors on it, but if the ring wants to gain more respect/credibility internationally they should look into modifying the colors and bald eagle.
Without a doubt history is to be respected and valued, but well thought out change can be a positive and is sometimes necessary.