I hate to be one of those guys that starts comparing a bunch of martial arts with another a specially since I am not myself martial artist, but I really do like the intellectual playing around with different martial arts.
This article will talk about the difference between karate and boxing and what might happen if the two are paired up against each other and how you might be littell which is better karate are boxing.
Karate
Karate brings an interesting array of history to the martial arts table. Originally developed as a samurai combat system, this martial art is full of ancient history and has evolved significantly since its inception several 1000 years ago.
Karate that when practiced today in America is very different than the karate that was practiced by the samurai warriors of ancient Japan. The karate that was practiced by the ancient warriors of Japan is more like a mix of karate, judo, jujitsu, kenpo and a little bit of aikido mixed into one complete combat system.
The advantages of karate over boxing are that karate does teach a well rounded striking system including kicks elbows and knees and even includes a little bit of jujitsu.
Karate also incorporates several judo type throws which could be a huge advantage over a boxer.
Boxing
The boxer is on the other hand, if I had to compare, generally more focused on physicality and technique. What I mean by focusing on physicality and technique is that many boxers are in very good fighting shape. So much a boxing is based off of cardio and strengths because you really are only focusing on to a strikingly limbs that any good boxer is someone who has spent a lot of time getting themselves and shape.
Boxing would have the advantage in karate if the boxer was able to close the gap fast and able to make quick work of any possible strikes that the karate player might throw against the boxer.
If a boxer had a little bit of training in how to deal with kicks they would be looked close the gap and make quick work of any karate martial artist.
In my opinion karate probably would outdo boxing in technique but in terms of physicality I think boxing of when. Clear and no holds barred competition I would put my money on the boxer.