Which boxer had the best comeback in 2009?
Coming back in the world of boxing is never an easy thing. Of course, it happens all of the time. Some of the best fighters in history were notorious for retiring only to continue on fighting, including Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Leonard. Others need not retire in order to comeback, injuries or jarring defeats force them onto the steep uphill path back towards stardom. Which fighter came back the farthest, or did so in the most spectacular fashion, in 2009?
2009 Boxing Comeback of the Year – Shane Mosley
Shane Mosley’s fight against Antonio Margarito was not supposed to end with a bewildered Margarito being pummeled into the canvas, his aura of invincibility permanently removed immediately following a public disgrace that forever tarnishes his image. No, this was supposed to be Mosley’s retirement fight. One last title shot for big money and then so long Shane. Mosley didn’t care much for that plot line however, and teamed up with Nazim Richardson he put on what might be the signature performance of his career.
In beating and battering Margarito until the fight was stopped, Mosley re-established himself as one of the best welterweights and best pound for pound fighters in the sport. It’s only a shame that he didn’t get to step into the ring again in 2009, with possible fights against the likes of Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather and Miguel Cotto never developing.
2009 Boxing Comeback of the Year Runner Up – Vitali Klitschko
Yes, Vitali Klitschko ended his hiatus from the sport in 2008. He won the WBC Heavyweight title from Sam Peter in October. However, it was still unknown how good Klitschko would be in an elongated return, and furthermore, how often he would fight. Klitschko stepped up to the plate three times in 2009, and put on solid performances each time, hardly losing a round in the process. Combined with his brother Wlad’s inactive 2009 campaign, Vitali asserted himself as possibly the premier heavyweight that the division has to offer.
2009 Boxing Comeback of the Year 3rd Place – Floyd Mayweather
Mayweather’s comeback fight against Juan Manuel Marquez went swimmingly well. He dominated the lightweight champion and cruised to a victory. However, his absence from the sport was never taken as permanent, therefore could he really come back? Additionally, while the Marquez performance was exemplary, it was a fight he was expected to win handily. In comparison, Mosley was a 4-1 underdog against Margarito and Vitali Klitschko was labeled with more than a handful of unkind words after many fight cancellations against Hasim Rahman and an eventual 4 year step back from the ring.
Image Credit: Jake Emen
Make sure you check out the rest of the 2009 Boxing Awards from ProBoxing-Fans.com. It’s the best way to recap the entire up and down, crazy year in boxing. And if you agree or disagree with any of the recipients, let us know in the comments!
