Roy Jones Jr lists 5 greatest fighters of all time

Between them, they had more than 550 professional fights, their careers spanning across eras and generations. These, according to Roy Jones Jr.are the five greatest fighters boxing has ever produced.

Jones himself would rank high on almost any list of the sport’s all-time elite. His preternatural genius culminated during a dominant run in the 1990s, when he seemed untouchable in several weight categoriesbefore boxing’s familiar cautionary tale – staying too long – led to a painful descent from grace for the four-weight world champion.

Beyond the tricks of the trade, the Pensacola phenom has successfully reinvented himself as a sharp and articulate analyst for HBO Boxing, earning the respect of a wide audience as one of the most authoritative voices in the sport. In an interview broadcast by Real Lyfe ProductionsJones was asked to name his personal Mount Rushmore – although he chose five rather than four – among boxing greats, starting with his undisputed number one.

“It’s really hard to say, but if I had to create my Mount Rushmore, it would be difficult, but I will put [Muhammad] Ali first. I’m going to step aside because I’m the one doing it. I’d probably put Sugar Ray Robinson second. I would probably put Roberto Duran third. And behind him Julio Cesar Chavez and then I’ll probably put Mike Tyson.”

Muhammad Ali’s career and cultural legacy remain unmatched. Beyond his reign as world heavyweight champion, Ali headlined sporting events that transcended boxing, capturing the imagination of the world and leaving an imprint that would endure decades later.

Sugar Ray Robinson’s greatness is defined as much by longevity as by brilliance. He went undefeated in his first 40 fights before suffering defeat to archrival Jake LaMotta, a rivalry that Robinson ultimately dominated by a margin of five to one. His world title in two weight classes extended into his thirties, a time when many thought his best days were behind him.

Roberto Durán is widely considered the greatest lightweight in boxing history, a ferocious force of nature at a time when he seemed almost invincible. His greatness was further enhanced by daring to compete against the best of the next generation, including Sugar Ray Leonard, Thomas Hearns and Marvin Hagler.

Mexico has produced a multitude of boxing legends, but Julio Cesar Chavez is perhaps its best export. A relentless pressure fighter with an iron will, Chavez remained undefeated until his 92nd professional contest, a statistic that underscores both his dominance and durability.

Jones’ list is rounded out by “Iron” Mike Tyson, a figure of the 1980s much as Jones himself was in the 1990s. Tyson emerged as a terrifying heavyweight prodigy, crushing opponents with speed and violence as he became the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.