I've always picked Saddler in this one by decision. Two reasons: Sanchez's trouble with tall, long-punching Featherweights and his great calm and cool. Saddler like Eusebio Pedroza (whom I also pick against Sal in MMs) was a dirty, rough fighter and I think his tactics would get to Sanchez and take him out of his "zone" so to speak. Sanchez was too good a fighter to lose big, even to a great fighter like Saddler, but I think he lets Sandy's frustrating, dirty tactics get to him and make him fight the wrong fight. When you combine that with Saddler's viscious, long-range punching and relentlessness, you get a Sanchez defeat by decision, IMO
Basically agree...though it's close. Saddler's reach, straight punching and relentless aggression frustrate Sanchez into staying in the pocket and fighting....because he probably gets a bit frustrated outside and has to come in anyway to deliver his best offense. I don't think the height is as much of an issue as Saddler liked to lean in and fight close; rather Saddler's long arms and straight shots from the outside - then, the ability to shorten up and fight inside and be very, very rough are all on his side. I think Sanchez is ALWAYS in it - his combinations and pivoting to keep Saddler off balance and open are big weapons, as are his uppercuts from either hand against Sandy... But my feeling is Saddler would come out on the winning end of a very good decision fight. Peace.
:rollllling: I thought long and hard about inserting that....but I meant it in the most accurate, best possible light.
