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Undisputed middleweight champion is a hallowed boxing term. Unifying any division sets a fighter apart, but the historical significance of the middleweight class is something special. The weight of that significance seems to be an increasing burden upon Jermain Taylor; as if the shadows of his illustrious predecessors loom over him at every turn.
Defending the right to remain the middleweight champion against Kassim Ouma, Taylor appeared to possess all of the qualities - both physical and intangible - to legitimize his position, yet failed to resemble a champion of champions.
Within the last eighteen months of his career, Taylor has experienced immense changes in status and perception. As a rising contender of considerable potential, few questioned the assumption that he might one day compete amongst the very best middleweights. As soon as he did - and ended Bernard Hopkins’ historic run - those accepting of Taylor’s quality became sudden inquisitors as to its true depth. Subsequent showings have revealed Taylor’s tenuous hold on the championship and exposed him to criticism as a champion of greater fortune than force. [details]
Defending the right to remain the middleweight champion against Kassim Ouma, Taylor appeared to possess all of the qualities - both physical and intangible - to legitimize his position, yet failed to resemble a champion of champions.
Within the last eighteen months of his career, Taylor has experienced immense changes in status and perception. As a rising contender of considerable potential, few questioned the assumption that he might one day compete amongst the very best middleweights. As soon as he did - and ended Bernard Hopkins’ historic run - those accepting of Taylor’s quality became sudden inquisitors as to its true depth. Subsequent showings have revealed Taylor’s tenuous hold on the championship and exposed him to criticism as a champion of greater fortune than force. [details]