Together, they competed in more than 550 professional games, and their careers spanned eras and generations. These, according to Roy Jones Jr.are the five greatest boxers in boxing history.

Jones himself figures prominently on just about any elite list in the history of the sport. His otherworldly talent peaked during his reign in the 1990s, when He looked untouchable in multiple weight classesThat was before boxing’s familiar cautionary tale of staying too long led to the four-weight world champion’s painful fall from grace.

Away from the ropes, the Pensacola phenomenon has successfully reinvented himself as a sharp, articulate analyst for HBO Boxing, earning widespread respect as one of the sport’s most authoritative voices. during an interview real life production companyJones was asked to name his personal Mount Rushmore of boxing greats – though he chose five instead of four – starting with his undisputed number one.

“It’s really hard to say, but if I had to create my Mount Rushmore, it would be difficult, but I would put (Muhammad) Ali first. I would go out on my own because I’m the one doing it. I’d probably put Sugar Ray Robinson second. I’d probably put Roberto Duran third. Behind him is Julio Cesar Chavez, and then I’d probably put Mike Tyson.”

Muhammad Ali’s career and legacy remain unparalleled. In addition to becoming the heavyweight champion of the world, Ali made headlines at sporting events that transcended boxing, captured the imagination of the wider world and left a mark that continues decades later.

The great thing about Sugar Ray Robinson was his longevity and talent. He went undefeated in his first 40 fights before losing to his archrival Jake LaMotta, who ultimately defeated Robinson by a 5-1 margin. His world title reigns in both weight classes stretched into his thirties, at a time when many believed his best days were behind him.

Widely regarded as the greatest lightweight fighter in boxing history, Roberto Duran was a ferocious force of nature during an era when he was virtually invincible. His greatness was further underscored by his courage to take on the next generation’s best players, including Sugar Ray Leonard, Thomas Hearns and Marvin Hagler.

Mexico has produced plenty of boxing legends, but Julio Cesar Chavez is perhaps its best export. A relentless pressure fighter with an iron will, Chavez remained undefeated until his 92nd pro fight, a statistic that highlighted his dominance and durability.

Rounding out Jones’ list is “Hardcore” Mike Tyson, who was as much a figure in the 1980s as Jones himself was in the 1990s. Tyson became the feared heavyweight prodigy who overwhelmed his opponents with speed and violence to become the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.