Respect him because he's a champion ? He's a loon! Even if he wasn't a loon, he's my age and you just don't go about beating the younger players. They have nerves and eyes. There is no amount of gadgetry that can fix that. Respect ? I believe personally that respect is something you have for a champion like Irving Crane or Jimmy Caras. Played the game well, were respectful of the game and carried themselves with class outside of the game. Earl is the best natural talent player ever, but that alone doesn't get my respect. If it does yours, good for you. We clearly have different sets of values. I get your intent, I just don't happend to agree with it. But remember this before calling someone out for their opinion. ANYONE in this country has the right to their opinion. Its called the 1st amendment of the Constitution.
tim