When I started playing Johnny was the first player to have made over 100,000 in tournament money in one year. That was a big deal at that time (and unfortunately it is still a relatively big deal in the world of pool in today's economy). He was averaging 3 and 4 balls on the break, and running out in 2.5 seconds...blasting balls in the pocket. Earl was about the only one who could slow him down, and Buddy slowed him down to a grinding halt at the Challenge of Champions. It seemed like during that period of the 90's a big tournament finals was always between either Reyes and Archer, or Reyes and Strickland. Varner, and Hall would pop their heads in occasionally too and snap off a tournament or two. The guys who are dominating now were paying their dues then, playing good, but still not at that "WORLD" champion level. Johnny got their very fast and at a young age. He has the composure, and the heart to regain that Champion status, but now I think he just needs the hunger and the work ethic to get and stay there. If I could pick anyone to watch play 9 ball, and I was going to watch them at their absolute best, it would be Johnny Archer. I think if he was playing at his top level, shotmaking wise and of course breaking the balls like King Kong, there is no one now who can hold a candle to Archer's 9 ball game. I hope he gets back on the saddle and dominates the game again. That would be great to see. I'm biased though, I've been an Archer fan for a long time.