The greatest champions in the history of boxing have included Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao, and Terence Crawford.
However, even these legends faced off against some less-than-stellar opponents. In the era of multiple belts and questionable rankings, some champions have raised eyebrows.
We’ve compiled a list, excluding lesser-known titles like IBO, WBU, and WBF, as well as the early WBO heavyweight champs when it lacked credibility. Here are the top 10 dubious champions:
10. Victor Ortiz
Known more for his antics outside the ring and a lackluster title defense than for his skills, Ortiz’s career has been mediocre at best since his defeat by Marcos Maidana.
9. Jeff Horn
While a respectable boxer, Horn’s controversial victory over Manny Pacquiao for the WBO welterweight title was widely criticized.
8. Caleb Truax
Truax’s win over James DeGale for the IBF 168lb title was unexpected, but he failed to capitalize on it, losing the rematch and a subsequent bout to Caleb Plant.
7. Carlos Maussa
His victory over ‘Vicious’ Vivian Harris was marred by a post-knockdown punch that could have led to disqualification. Maussa quickly lost the title to Ricky Hatton and faded into obscurity.
6. Mickey Bey
Bey’s disputed win over Miguel Vazquez was overshadowed by a lackluster performance and subsequent loss to Rances Barthelemy.
5. Bruce Seldon
Seldon’s brief reign as WBA heavyweight champion ended in embarrassment when he was knocked out in the first round by Mike Tyson.
4. Eric Aiken
Aiken’s career highlight was a controversial win over Valdemir Pereira. He failed to defend his title and retired with a string of losses.
3. Hector Javier Velazco
Velazco became WBO middleweight champion due to Harry Simon’s car accident. He lost his first defense and never fought for a world title again.
2. Charles Martin
Martin won the IBF heavyweight title after his opponent suffered a knee injury. He lost the title in his first defense against Anthony Joshua.
1. Luis Santana
Santana’s bizarre trilogy with Terry Norris included two wins by disqualification, making him a world champion in a rather unusual manner.
These boxers, while achieving the pinnacle of their sport, left much to be desired in terms of skill, legitimacy, or memorable performances.