Expert: Lian Shoemake - 2/1/2005

Question
Hi there i asked you how good you thought Ike Ibeabuchi was a few days ago, and i thought what you said was very true, some people say he would have been exposed against Lewis like Tua was, but i think Ike was a more complete boxer than Tua, and would have done a lot better against Lewis, some people say this samuel peter guy is good, but he does not appear to be as good as Ibeabuchi, whats your views on him? kind regards.  

Answer
Hi Paul,

I'm not completely sold on Sam Peter yet. I like his work ethic, his power, and the stamina he's shown thus far, ablbeit against weak opposition.
He appears to be one dimensional in his attack, however. For the most part, Peter is a methodical, dangerous stalker with only average hand speed and an untested, yet readily available chin.
He is young, though, and if he can add some diversity to his game, like an improved jab, a serious body attack and some much-needed head movement, he can raise his chances for success. Even as he is now, he will probably win lots of fights just with his raw power, which is considerable.
I'd like to see him in with someone the caliber of at least a Larry Donald or Michael Moorer to see how he deals with an experienced pro.
All that being said, Samuel Peter is certainly no Ike Ibeabuchi! :)

Thanks for writing, Paul!

Regards,

Lian