If there’s one thing that boxing fans love more than watching fighting, it’s making lists. This list-making is the cause of some of the most heated online debates, and it’s the root cause of some of the most creative and in-depth analytical thinking ever.
Fight fans take list-making seriously, so in order to give our humble contribution to this habit of theirs, here’s a list of the top five boxing states in the US. Here, we’ve included everything from the talent that originated there, iconic venues, and even the impact that these states had on boxing in popular culture (you’ll see what we’re talking about based on our No.1 on the list).
With that in mind and without further ado, here’s our list!
1. Pennsylvania
Even though he’s a fictional character, you just can’t top the state that’s home to Rocky Balboa’s city. Due to the iconic franchise, the steps, and the statue, Philadelphia has become synonymous with boxing in the States.
Still, no matter how iconic Rocky is, it wouldn’t be fair to base our list on it, especially with Philadelphia being the home of Smokin’ Joe Frazier, Bernard Hopkins, and Harry Greb. Then, add to this list an iconic Lew Tendler, whom many people would agree to be the best boxer never to win a title.
Now, if you’re still not convinced, how about the fact that anyone who has ever watched Mayweather box has tried the iconic Philly shell?
For “The City of Brotherly Love,” boxers from Philadelphia are some of the toughest on the continent. Even calling it “Fight City” wouldn’t be too much. Regardless of the climate on the rest of the continent, when it comes to boxing, it’s always sunny in Philadelphia.
2. California
The Golden Boy, Oscar De La Hoya, is from California… end of discussion.
No, seriously, this state is criminally overlooked when it comes to top boxing states ranking. Just in recent memory, one could name Andrew Ward, Shane Mosley, and Tim Bradley. In fact, the only reason why California isn’t higher on the list is all sorts of biases. It’s also the fact that the place is renowned for many things, and it seems unfair to add boxing to the list, as well.
If you want to watch a bout in The Grand Garden Arena or place a bet on a fight, there are so many ways that California natives are enjoying the sweet science. For those who are interested in the latter, there’s a list of the top CA sports betting apps ranked worth checking out before the next fight.
3. New York
Whenever there’s a massive boxing event, chances are that it will be hosted in Madison Square Garden. Since boxing became legal in New York in 1920, this city has hosted more major bouts than any other location in the world.
A taint on this title comes from the fact that attempts to legalize MMA in the state have been unsuccessful since 2015. However, boxing purists will take even this as a major win for the “sweet science.” Still, it’s a shame that of the major upcoming MMA events, none of them will be hosted in NY.
The list of big names from New York is virtually endless. However, Mike Tyson would probably be enough to justify the title alone. Now, add to the fact that this state was also the home of Jake LaMotta (Raging Bull), and you have all the justification you need.
Other than these two, New York has over 50 champions, some of which, like Benny Leonard and Jack Britton, are easily ranked within the top 30 boxers of all time (regardless of who makes the list).
4. Georgia
Settling a dispute over who is the best fighter in history is really a challenge. The majority of people will disagree on one name or the other, but the name that the majority of boxing aficionados will agree upon is definitely Sugar Ray Robinson. This miraculous fighter is most often voted as the P4P greatest of all time, so would it make any sense not to include his home state on the list? We think not.
Still, the list of amazing boxers doesn’t end with Robinson. Ezzard Charles, Ike Williams, and Jimmy Bivins all come from Georgia.
People who aren’t that familiar with boxing history might not be familiar with some of these names; however, they’ve all heard about Ali’s nemesis, Larry Holmes. What they don’t know is the fact that he also comes from Georgia.
5. Michigan
Even though you know Floyd Mayweather Jr. for his Philly shell, what you don’t know is that this boxing legend doesn’t actually come from Philadelphia. Money Mayweather (formerly also known as Pretty Boy Mayweather) was actually born in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Sure, one boxer is not enough to put a state on this list (no matter how incredible his resume). Still, when Mayweather is joined by the likes of Stanley Ketchel, Kid Lavigne, and James Toney, what you get is a state worthy of its place on this list (perhaps even a higher position).
Now, some people hate Mayweather; others put him as the GOAT; however, one thing that’s not up to debate is who is the best female professional boxer of all time. It’s Claressa Shields. Guess what state she’s from? That’s right – one more W for Michigan.
But if you’re not into boxing, and e-sports are more your cup of tea, you can check the latest esports live score.