Dawson: inspiring Calzaghe left at top like Marciano

WORLD light-heavyweight champion Chad Dawson has compared Joe Calzaghe to the legendary Rocky Marciano following the Welshman’s announcement that he is to retire with his 46-fight unbeaten record intact.

The American, who is training to defend his IBF 175lbs title in a rematch against Antonio Tarver in Las Vegas on March 14, had been mooted as a possible future opponent for Calzaghe had he held retirement at bay.

Dawson said: “I applaud Joe’s decision. It’s obvious he and his family gave it a lot of thought. Timing is everything and to leave centre stage at his peak is rare and comparable to the retirement of Rocky Marciano.