Julio Cesar Chavez is one of the most decorated Mexican fighters in boxing history.
In his 115 fight professional career, Chavez tasted defeat on just six occasions with 86 of his 107 victories coming by way of stoppage.
The Mexican great captured world titles in three weight classes, with the bulk of his success coming in the late 80s and early 90s where he defeated the likes of Meldrick Taylor, Roger Mayweather and Hector Camacho amongst a number of other big boxing names.
Chavez still holds the joint record for having the highest number of successful world title defences in the sport’s history, defending his various world championship belts on no less than 27 occasions.
After going toe-to-toe with some of the greatest fighters of his era, the Mexican icon has revealed the best fighter he faced throughout his entire tenure.
Speaking to The Ring Magazine, Chavez named Taylor – who he stopped on two occasions during his career, the second being 1990’s Fight of the Year – as his best ever opponent.
“I faced everybody. If you look at my record, all the fights I had, I had 37 world championship fights and I didn’t hand pick any opponents. But if I was to look at the best overall fighter, it would have to be Meldrick Taylor … He had every skill you need as a fighter, his speed, quickness, power, all you could ask for.”
Taylor’s professional career began in 1984, just months after he picked up an Olympic Gold Medal at the summer games in Los Angeles.
He would go on to capture world titles in two weight classes during his tenure, reigning as the IBF light-welterweight champion and WBA welterweight champion. Perhaps the most famous victory of his career came against Buddy McGirt, who he defeated to win the IBF world title in September 1988.
