I had a chance to chat with Syracuse defensive end Jameel McClain at the Big East media day earlier this week. For Syracuse fans, the big guy may represent the lone bright spot on an Orange team that appears destined to repeat as the conference doormat (apologies to UConn). The 250 lb McClain has been named to the '07 Nagurski watch list (given to nation's best defensive player) after recording 14.5 tackles for a loss and 9.5 sacks in '06.Though he may be a little undersized at 6'1" (believe me, I saw the guy and would hesitate at calling him "undersized" to his face) the pass rusher is currently seen as a third or fourth rounder in next year's draft.
He's also an avid boxing fan. The Philly native trains in North Philadelphia boxing gyms when he goes home, and is friends with Bernard Hopkins' legendary trainer Naseem Richardson (he's also made time to train with former SU defensive end Dwight Freeney in preparation for '07.) He grew up boxing, and competed in the prestigious Philadelphia Golden Gloves as an adolescent. McClain was ecstatic to share his top five favorite fighters after a long day answering questions about the prospects of his final season with Syracuse.
Jameel McCalin's top five boxers:
1. Floyd Mayweather Jr. (appreciates how willingly Floyd embraces "bad guy" role)
2. Bernard Hopkins (McClain predicts a win by decision over Winky Wright.)
3. Antonio Tarver
4. Ivan "Mighty" Costa (we don't know him either- McClain used to spar with him)
5. Rock Allen
Leave a comment: Who is your favorite boxer now, and of all-time?
