10: Best middleweight titleholders of the last 50 years

9. Sumbu Kalambay

Record: 57-6-1, 33 knockouts

Years active: 1980-1993

Title reign: 1987-1989 (WBA); three defenses

Style: Slick stick-and-move specialist

Strengths: Hand and foot speed, lateral movement, balance, timing, counter-punching ability, and an excellent jab.

Why is he ranked? The Italy-based Congo native’s underrated late-1980s title run began with decision victories over undefeated Herol Graham (38-0), feared brawler Iran Barkley and undefeated future hall of famer Mike McCallum (32-0).

Who did he fight? Titleholders McCallum (W 12, L 12), Michael Nunn (KO’d 1), Barkley (W 15), Steve Collins (W 12), Doug DeWitt (TKO 7) and Chris Pyatt (W 12).

Also faced: Ayub Kalule (W 12), Graham (W 12, W 12), Robbie Sims (W 12) and Duane Thomas (L 10).