Examining the 2022 International Boxing Hall of Fame class

James Toney (77-10-3, 47 KOs)

Like Shane Mosley, seeing James Toney on this list may be a bit surprising to some. His prime was in the 1990s, and most fans were not even aware that he was not already retired. But believe it or not, he fought in 2017. Yes, seriously.

Despite fighting for way too long, Toney deserves to be in the Hall of Fame as much as anyone. Tony retired a three-division world champion, and was the lineal middleweight champion for a time. It appeared as though he had won a title in a fourth division when he defeated heavyweight John Ruiz, but the bout was later ruled a no-contest after Toney failed a drug test.

He also was The Ring Magazine/BWAA fighter of the year in 1991 and 2003. In 2011, The Ring Magazine listed him as the 10th-best middleweight titleholder of the past 50 years.

A very slick fighter, Toney had elite defense, something not always associated with boxers of his size. He also was one of the most unique personalities in the sport, and was responsible for quite a few funny quotes.

Perhaps his best win came when he was able to TKO Evander Holyfield. While Holyfield was not quite in his prime, it was still a very impressive performance, and Toney’s skills were fully on display that night.