A jazz legend and a boxing champion: two artists, two different stages, yet strikingly similar in the eyes of a seasoned trainer. Mike Tyson’s former mentor, Teddy Atlas, has drawn an unusual comparison that might leave many scratching their heads. In a recent conversation with Stephen A. Smith, Atlas likened the performance of Terence Crawford in the ring to Louis Armstrong’s ability to create a new note. A comparison between a boxer’s jab and a musician’s melody is rare, if not unheard of.
But could there be a hidden symphony in the way Crawford dances in the ring? Is there a musicality to his punches that resembles Armstrong’s innovation with a trumpet? This odd parallel opens up a world of curiosity, inviting us to explore the artistry that transcends both music and sports. What could possibly connect a world-renowned jazz musician to a Welterweight boxing champion?
A lopsided fight that leaves more questions than answers
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In the captivating world of boxing, comparisons are frequently drawn between fighters and legends of the sport. But comparing a boxer to a jazz musician? That’s something truly unique. Such an exceptional comparison was made by Teddy Atlas, Mike Tyson’s former trainer, in a conversation with Stephen A. Smith.
Smith began by reflecting on the fight between Terence Crawford and Errol Spence Jr., expressing his dissatisfaction with the lopsided result, even though he found it entertaining. He said, “I love great boxing matches. I don’t consider this—that I think it was incredibly lopsided. Although it was very entertaining and we get that. I gotta tell you I walked away with a palpable level of sadness.”
Atlas, transitioning from Smith’s emotional reaction, began to shed light on Crawford’s multifaceted abilities, likening him to Louis Armstrong. He explained how Crawford’s greatness reminded him of a lesson from Cus D’Amato, and then went on to say, “Like a Louis Armstrong that can create a new note on a horn that you never heard before. You just never heard it before. All of that yes he’s well-rounded but he’s dimensional. He can counter, he can go get you, he could sit in a pocket you know.”
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Mastery of Terence Crawford : A harmony between physical prowess and mental strength
He continued to describe Crawford’s talents, emphasizing the mental part of his game: “He can do all of those things but the most important thing is that this is the guy that sees things that other people don’t see. That that it’s this part, it’s the cerebral part the mental part. That he can be calm in an uncalm environment. They all have talent, Spence has talent too there’s no doubt about it but he’s in a cerebral vacuum.”
Also Read: Watch: Terence Crawford Embraces Hip Hop Legend Eminem Post a Sensational Win
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From Smith’s initial disappointment to Atlas’s extraordinary analogy, the conversation leads the reader to appreciate not just the physical but the intellectual aspect of Crawford’s boxing. The unique comparison with Louis Armstrong elevates the discourse, transcending traditional sports commentary and resonating with the creativity found in music. This rare intersection between boxing and music offers readers a rich insight into the art and intellect that shapes a champion in the ring.
Watch this story: Five Potential Opponents for Terence Crawford After Dominant Win Against Errol Spence Jr.