Before Ruddock fell in love with his power, I'd back him. Not that he was some Larry Holmes type boxer, but he had more skill than Wilder, and Wilder would NOT be able to handle The Smash. The Ruddock from the first Tyson fight was fast and sharp, despite losing, I think he'd have flattened Wilder that night. Wilder groupies might back Wilder to duplicate what Lewis did, but the Alabama bum is plain and simple NOT Lewis. Beyonce can't fight a lick.
I'll take Ruddock but in a match-up that can potentially end at any moment i wouldn't exactly be confident. Wilder is obviously no Lennox but he does have the height and reach. Must see TV no matter what.
I'd pick Wilder though it obviously could go both ways. A draw against Fury and two KOs over Ortiz and two wins over Stiverne is more than Ruddock ever did. Considering how much flack Wilder's record gets, Ruddock's own resume is quite lacking
This... Ruddock's Rep is Built On Destroying a SHOT Michael Dokes and the Brownie Points he Earned LOSING 2 Fights to Tyson...As You've Stated, Wilder's BEATEN Higher Caliber Fighter's than Ruddock (By KO No Less) and As Such, it's SILLY to ASSume Ruddock Walks Thru Him... If they Fought 10 Times, Wilder Wins 6 in REED's Opinion... REED
Makes You Wonder How a Guy GOT to 42-1-1, 41 KO's & Double Digit World Title Defenses, w/Out Ever Knowing HOW to Fight... REED