In the early to mid 1980’s, there was an exciting bantamweight champion on the scene named “Joltin'” Jeff Chandler. Chandler, a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, reigned as the WBA Bantamweight Champion from 1980-1984. During that time, when fights were still on ABC, NBC and CBS, he made many fans in some out and out wars. He defended his title nine times and finally met defeat on April 7, 1984 against tough Richie Sandoval, who stopped him via TKO in the 15th round. Chandler retired after this fight and never returned to the ring.
Manny Pacquiao campaigns one weight class higher and had he fought in the days of Chandler, a fight between the two would have been a superfight for the little guys. They both shared solid power in the ring and could box as well. Also, they always came into the ring in shape and took as much as they gave.
In a departure from our normal articles, I would like to hear from RSR readers on who they feel would have won this matchup had it happened and how it would have played out. I will collect input for one week from this article being posted and the following week, I will post all of your responses. I look forward to hearing from all of the Manny Pacquiao and Jeff Chandler fans out there.
