Taking this analogy one step further, Bush did have the one knock-down and standing 8 count -- his response to Kerry's "global test." And Kerry wobbled when Bush counterpunched Kerry's comment about more UN resolutions. I would say that Kerry looked liked a better fighter, but Bush scored more points.
Here it is again: "Kerry LOOKED light a better fighter". Uh, it's not about looking good (also known as "stylin'"), it's about being a formidable CIC.