Boxing's Great "Oldie Goldies" Vs. Today's Athletes,... Are we being unrealistic?

I agree with you, the progression of the athlete is always forward, but something must be said for legacy and paying honor to the greats of the past. It would be a sad day if those who created the sports we love today were not honored for their contributions. Those fighters/athletes are the foundation and have earned their spot so in someways the new generation can never be as good or better but only hope to join them. Youth have never seen the history and greatness of the past what we remember are the stories of our fathers, grandparents, and elders and stories in order for them to say relevant have to be untouchable. Like a tree with beautiful branches and enticing leaves, what makes it what it is are the roots, don't go ripping at the roots for fear you may kill the tree.