Top 15 Worst Boxers Of All Time (With Videos)

Boxing is a challenging sport that requires skill, athleticism, and mental toughness to succeed. While some fighters become legends, others struggle and gain notoriety as some of the worst in the sport. These boxers have earned a reputation as the worst in the history of boxing.

These boxers gained notoriety for their poor performances, losing records, and being brought in as opponents for more skilled fighters. The focus will be on their journeyman careers, notable fights, and moments that have contributed to their reputations as some of the worst boxers in the sport. Through studying their challenges and hardships, we can gain insight into the demands of this challenging sport.

Peter Buckley

The British boxer is known as “The Professor.” Throughout his career, he has had many losses on his record. He fought in over 300 professional bouts. He is deemed a ‘stepping stone’ for world champions to the likes of Naseem Hamed and Kell Brook.

Losing Record And Lackluster Performances

Buckley’s career was marked by numerous losses, which is common for a journeyman fighter. However, his record of 256 losses is particularly high, symbolizing the struggles and hardships of a boxing career.

His performances could have been better, with many of his fights lasting the full duration without any significant action. Despite this, he was known for his toughness and durability in the ring. His opponents often found him difficult to defeat him via knockout.

Journeyman Career

Peter Buckley’s journeyman career in boxing lasted well over a decade. He played the role of an opponent for more experienced or up-and-coming fighters to build their records. Buckley never refused a fight, often accepting bouts on short notice.

He accepted fights regardless, whether after a night out drinking or in the middle of his dinner 2 hours before a fight. He fought in 300 fights, winning only 31, losing 256, and drawing 12. Despite his losing record, Buckley was widely respected for his durability and sportsmanship in the boxing community.

Infamy In The Ring

Buckley’s infamy in the ring was not due to his winning record but rather his reputation for being tough and durable. His willingness to take hits made him a popular sparring partner for many up-and-coming fighters.

However, it also led to some dangerous and controversial moments in the ring where he appeared outmatched and took severe punishment without any hope of winning. Despite his challenging career, Buckley’s dedication to the sport and willingness to help young boxers improve their skills are still appreciated in the boxing community.

Reggie Strickland

The professional American boxer went by several names, such as “Reggie Buse” and “Reggie Raglin.” His long-standing journeyman career spanned over two decades. Strickland holds the record for the most professional defeats with over 276 defeats.

Losing Record And Lackluster Performances

Strickland had a professional record of 66 wins, 276 losses, and 17 draws. He was known for fighting against more experienced opponents and taking fights on short notice, which often led to him having an unfavorable record.

Despite his losing record, Strickland was a tough and durable fighter who always gave his best effort in the ring. Strickland would travel across America, fighting as often as twice a month. He would often still recover from a previous bout before stepping into the ring. Most of his fights often went the distance, constantly losing via decision.

Journeyman Career

Strickland had a long and challenging journeyman career. He fought in various weight classes and against some of the best boxers in the world. He often fought as the opponent to up-and-coming fighters or as a stepping stone for established fighters looking to get back into the win column.

Notably, he was featured in The New York Times as a journeymen fighter detailing his experiences as a journeyman boxer.

Infamy In The Ring

One of Strickland’s most infamous moments in the ring against Todd Foster, who previously fought in the Olympics, winning most of his fights via technical knockout or KO. The fact that the fight went to a decision is remarkable. Despite his loss, Strickland remained respected in the boxing community for his toughness and willingness to take on any opponent.

Seamus Casey

An Irish professional boxer with a journeyman career spanning over a decade. Throughout his career.

Losing Record And Lackluster Performances

Casey had a professional record of 30 wins, 129 losses, and five draws. He was known for his unconventional and awkward fighting style against more experienced opponents and for taking fights on short notice.

This often led to him having an unfavorable record. Despite his losses, Casey was a determined fighter who always gave his best effort in the ring.

Journeyman Career

Casey had a journeyman career that spanned over a decade. He fought in various weight classes and against some skilled boxers of his era. He often fought as the opponent to up-and-coming fighters or as a stepping stone for established fighters looking to get back into the winning column.

Infamy In The Ring

One of Casey’s most infamous moments in the ring was fighting against Billy Collins. Casey constantly clinched onto Billy throughout the fight. Casey lost this fight; however, it made the distance. Despite this loss, Casey remained respected in the boxing community for his toughness and willingness to take on any opponent.

Youssef Al Hamidi

A Syrian professional boxer with a journeyman career spanning over a decade. Throughout his career, Al Hamidi had many losing records and lackluster performances.

Losing Record And Lackluster Performances

Al Hamidi had a professional record of 16 wins, 123 losses, and five draws. He often fought against more experienced opponents and took fights on short notice, which led to many unfavorable records. Despite his losing records, Al Hamidi was a determined fighter who always gave his best effort in the ring.

Journeyman Career

Al Hamidi had a journeyman career that spanned over a decade. He fought in various weight classes. Youssef often fought as the opponent to up-and-coming fighters. However, he performed well in his early career before going professional.

He won bronze in the Army world national championships. Youssef remained a Syrian Champion for ten years and Arabic Champion at 57KG as an amateur. He failed to reach the more elite levels that encompass the sport of boxing. Though notably, out of all his fights, he was rarely ever knocked out.

Infamy In The Ring

One of Al Hamidi’s most infamous moments in the ring was fighting against Adam Cope. Al Hamidi was outclassed by the younger fighter in each round, ultimately losing via points. Despite this loss, Al Hamidi remained respected in the boxing community for his toughness.

Frankie Hines

Frankie Hines is an American professional boxer with a journeyman career spanning over a decade. Not much is known about this fighter except for his infamous record.

Losing Record And Lackluster Performances

Hines had a professional record of 17 wins, 120 losses, and five draws. He was known for fighting against more experienced opponents in the heavyweight division and taking fights on short notice, much like any journeyman. Despite his record, Hines was a determined fighter.

Journeyman Career

Hines had a journeyman career that spanned over a decade. He fought at heavyweight against some of the more heavy-handed fighters of his era. He often fought as the opponent to up-and-coming fighters or as a stepping stone for established fighters themselves.

Infamy In The Ring

One of Hines’ most infamous moments in the ring occurred in 2002 when he fought against Tony Thompson. Hines lost via technical knockout, which resulted in him becoming one of the many fighters to fall victim to Tony’s powerful punches.

Tony later would match up against the legendary Wladimir Klitschko. Despite this loss, Hines remained respected in the boxing community for his toughness and willingness to take on any opponent.

Jason Nesbitt 

Jason Nesbitt was a boxer from the United Kingdom with a journeyman career spanning 16 years. Throughout his career, Nesbitt had lost many fights. However, he was quite tactful in earning his paycheck for some of his lackluster performances.

Losing Record And Lackluster Performances

Nesbitt had a professional record of 10 wins, 198 losses, and four draws. He was known for fighting against more skilled opponents. Though Jason is one of many journeymen who knew that up-and-coming boxers would avoid elite-level boxers to avoid tarnishing their records.]

Jason would clinch his opponents, holding them down throughout the rounds. Not only did he avoid damage, but this also guaranteed himself a consistent paycheck. 

Journeyman Career

He fought in the welterweight division and against some notable boxers. He often fought up-and-coming fighters looking to establish themselves. His losing record made new fighters eager to sign up for a bout. Nesbitt made his living this way.

Traveling from the home towns of risings boxers where judges would typically score in favor of the hometown fighter.

Infamy In The Ring

One of Nesbitt’s most infamous moments in the ring occurred in 2016 when he fought against Chris Kongo. Nesbitt was knocked out in the first round. Despite this loss, Nesbitt cashed in his check and remained respected in the boxing community for his toughness and granite chin. This was especially true for coaches and promoters looking to test and promote new fighters.

Kevin McCauley

Kevin McCauley is a professional boxer from the United Kingdom who has competed in numerous fights throughout his career. 

Losing Record And Lackluster Performances

McCauley has a professional record of 15 wins, 224 losses, and 12 draws. McCauley has gained notoriety for his propensity to challenge opponents who are more seasoned than him and for accepting fights on short notice. Despite his setbacks, McCauley is a resolute fighter who consistently puts forth his utmost effort in the ring.

Journeyman Career

McCauley has been a journeyman for over ten years. He has fought in the middleweight division. Often serving as a late replacement for other fighters. While he has not had much success in terms of wins, he has earned respect for his willingness to take on tough challenges on short notice.

Infamy In The Ring

One of McCauley’s most infamous moments in the ring in 2020 was when he fought against Idris Virgo. McCauley was a punching bag throughout the rounds, constantly wrapping up Virgo in the clinch when the opportunity arose. Despite this loss via points, McCauley remains respected in the boxing community for his toughness and ability to take punishment.

Kristian Laight

Kristian Laight, known as “Mr. Reliable,” was a British professional boxer who is best known for holding the record for the most losses in professional boxing. Despite his record, Laight was respected for his durability and toughness in the ring. He was often brought in as an opponent for young and upcoming boxers to demonstrate their skills.

Losing Record And Lackluster Performances

Laight had a professional record of 12 wins, 279 losses, and nine draws, with a total of 300 fights. He was known for fighting against more experienced opponents and taking fights on short notice. Despite his losing records, Laight was a determined fighter who always gave his best effort in the ring, retiring after his 300th fight.

Journeyman Career

Laight had a journeyman career that spanned 15 years. He fought in the super lightweight division. He often fought as the opponent to up-and-coming fighters or as a stepping stone for established fighters looking to get back into the winning bracket.

Infamy In The Ring

Laight’s infamous career was mainly for a paycheck. Though they still need to make it to the elite levels of boxing. Laight would not take fights against dangerous fighters; this saved him years in his career. Surprisingly Laight is very coherent and well-spoken for the number of fights he has undertaken.

Despite these losses, Laight remains a respected figure in the boxing community and is used as a measuring stick against new fighters in the sport.

Robin Deakin

Robin Deakin is a British professional boxer who is widely known as “Britain’s worst boxer” or by the fighting name “Rockin” for his journeyman career that has spanned over a decade. Deakin has lost many fights throughout his career, though most would never think he is disabled.

Deakin was born with a medical condition known as talipes equinovarus, commonly called “clubfoot.” As a child, he underwent over 40 surgical procedures. He didn’t gain the ability to walk without assistance until he was six years old. He is truly an inspirational boxer showing he can compete despite his disability.

Losing Record And Lackluster Performances

Deakin has a professional record of 2 wins, 53 losses, and 0 draws. He is known for fighting against more experienced opponents and taking fights on with little to no training, which often led to him having an unfavorable record. Despite this, his disability leaves him very easily unbalanced. Deakin is a determined fighter who always gives his best effort in the ring.

Journeyman Career

Deakin is more of an inspiration than a journeyman, with a career spanning over 10 years. He has fought in the super lightweight division and against some skilled boxers. As of late has entered into the ring of bare-knuckle boxing. 

Infamy In The Ring

Robin Deakin is considered an inspiration for several reasons, despite facing numerous losses, obstacles, and setbacks. Being born with a medical condition, he pursued his dream of becoming a professional boxer. Robin also faced financial difficulties and personal struggles, including battles with depression and addiction. Still, he continued to persevere and work hard towards his goals.

Donnie Penelton

Donnie Penelton was an American professional boxer who was known as “The Black Battle Cat” or “The Spoiler.”

Losing Record And Lackluster Performances

Penelton had a final professional record of 13 wins, 166 losses, and six draws. He was known for fighting against more experienced opponents and focusing mainly on his defense. This made him a durable fighter who could go the distance, doing just enough to lose. Despite his losing record, Penelton holds two victories against Reggie Strickland.

Journeyman Career

Penelton had a journeyman career that spanned over a decade. He fought in the light heavyweight division and against some of the best boxers in the world. He often fought as the opponent to up-and-coming fighters or as a stepping stone for established fighters looking to get back into the win column.

Infamy In The Ring

Penelton’s most infamous moment in the ring was when he fought against Jean Pascal in 2005. Penelton lost via technical knockout in the second round; Donnie was a punching bag for Pascal through each round. Pascal later became the WBA light heavyweight titleholder from 2019 to 2021. Penelton served as a stepping stone to this great fighter despite this loss.

Eric Crumble

Eric Crumble is an American former boxer who gained notoriety for his consistent losing streak. He lost all but one of his 32 professional fights via knockout in the first or second round.

Losing Record And Lackluster Performances

Crumble had a professional record of 0 wins and 31 losses. He was known for fighting against more experienced opponents and taking fights on short notice, which often led to him having unfavorable records. Despite his losing records, Crumble was a tough fighter who always gave his best effort in the ring.

Journeyman Career 

Crumble was used as a stepping stone for up-and-coming fighters. Crumble’s journeyman career was characterized by his willingness to take on challenging opponents and his inability to win fights. This ultimately led to his consistent losing record.

Despite his losing streak, Crumble’s persistence in fighting and taking on tough opponents made him a respected figure in the boxing community, as journeyman boxers are often seen as crucial to the sport’s development and growth.

Infamy In The Ring

Eric Crumble’s infamy in boxing stems from his consistent losing streak throughout his career. Despite participating in 32 professional fights, he never won a single one, with his only non-loss being a no-contest.

All of his losses were via knockout in the first or second round, contributing to his reputation as a less skilled boxer. Despite his lack of success in the ring, Crumble’s name has become somewhat famous in the boxing community due to his unusual record.

Daniel Thrope 

Daniel Thrope was an American professional boxer with a journeyman career spanning over a decade. Throughout his career, Thrope had many losing records and lackluster performances.

Losing Record And Lackluster Performances

Thrope had a professional record of 23 wins, 113 losses, and three draws. He often fought against more experienced opponents and took fights on short notice, leading to unfavorable records. Despite his losing records, Thrope was a tough fighter who always gave his best effort in the ring.

Journeyman Career 

Thrope fought in the lightweight division and against some skilled up-and-coming boxers in the ring. He often was deemed a stepping stone for fighters looking to build records and test their skills in transitioning from the amateur circuit.

Infamy In The Ring

Thrope’s most infamous was when he fought against Amir Khan. Thorpe’s awkward style was frustrating Amir in the bout’s first round. Despite this, Daniel was floored in the first round. The fight in itself was explosive and rather amateur-like. The fight lacked the composure that most professionals hold within the ring. Thorpe was ultimately put away in the second round by the younger fighter.

Brian Coleman 

Brian Coleman was a British professional boxer with a journeyman career spanning over a decade. 

Losing Record And Lackluster Performances 

Coleman had a professional record of 24 wins, 141 losses, and seven draws. He often fought against more experienced opponents and took fights on short notice, which led to him needing a better fight record. Despite the losses, Coleman was a tough fighter who always gave his best effort in the ring.

Journeyman Career

Coleman fought in the welterweight division and against some notably skilled boxers in the ring. He often fought opponents way above his skill level. Coleman is deemed a stepping stone for new fighters looking to build their records in the pro circuit.

Infamy In The Ring

Coleman’s most infamous moment in the ring was when he fought against Bobby Vanzie

.Coleman was dominated in every round of the fight. Coleman lost via points. Despite this remained a respected figure in the boxing community for up-and-coming fighters to test their skill and potentially boost their record.

Karl Taylor

Karl Taylor is a professional boxer from the united kingdom known for his journeyman career and numerous losses.

Losing Record And Lackluster Performances 

Throughout his career, Taylor accumulated a record of 16 wins, 142 losses, and seven draws. Despite his losses, Taylor was known for his hard chin and durability to go the distance.

Journeyman Career

Taylor fought in the super lightweight division and against some of the best boxers in the ring. Frequently, he would engage in fights against emerging boxers or serve as a means for accomplished fighters seeking to regain their winning record.

Infamy In The Ring 

Taylor is most famous for his fight against Colin Lynes. Karl would smother Lynes in the clinch to dampen the power punches and blows from Lynes. The result was Lynes winning each round via points. Lynes went on to be quite successful in his career.

Winning the IBO super lightweight title. At the regional level, he held the British super lightweight title, The EBU European super lightweight title, and the British welterweight title. Despite this loss, Taylor aided as a stepping stone to this great fighter.

Billy Smith

Billy Smith was a professional boxer from the United Kingdom known for his journeyman career, losing records, and lackluster performances in the ring.

Losing Record And Lackluster Performances

Throughout his career, Smith had a record of 13 wins, 145 losses, and two draws. He often fought against more experienced and skilled opponents, which led to him having unfavorable records. Despite his losing records, Smith was known for his toughness and always gave his best effort in the ring.

Journeyman Career

 Smith fought in various weight classes and against some of the best boxers in the world. He often fought as an opponent to up-and-coming fighters or as a stepping stone for established fighters looking to get back into the win column.

Infamy In The Ring

Smith is most famous for his fight against Danny Huckstepp. Smith was knocked around the ring absorbing punishment with little to no offense. Huckstepp won by decision. Smith lasted the rounds though his performance was inferior.

Conclusion

The world of boxing has seen its fair share of great fighters and legends of the sport. However, some boxers have struggled to make an impact and win fights. This list has highlighted the worst boxers in the sport’s history, and their reputations are a reminder of the challenges and difficulties that come with a career in boxing. Some are in it for the money or the love of the sport. While others are still trying to prove themselves in the world of boxing. 

Despite their lack of success, these fighters were still brave enough to step into the ring and face opponents who were often much more skilled than they were. As such, they deserve some respect for their efforts, even if they could not reach the sport’s top. Boxing remains a sport that demands the best from its athletes. Only the strongest and most skilled fighters can truly make a name for themselves in this challenging and demanding arena.