They were also better conditioned. Forget the nonsense about weight and leg kicks, both fights were primarily fought standup with hands and it is clear to impartial observers who the better boxer was in each.
I would disagree.
However when including factors such as legkicks, range, and the threat of a takedown, then yes they can, and did win the striking battles in their fights.
Are you suggesting that weight isn't a factor in boxing? You realize how ridiculous a statement that is right? 
shaqitup - I would disagree.
However when including factors such as legkicks, range, and the threat of a takedown, then yes they can, and did win the striking battles in their fights.
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Almost all of Rory-BJ and most of Bendo-Nate was spent standing. Virtually every exchange of punches was won by Rory and Bendo.
It is true that Bendo effectively used kicks and takedowns and Nate did not. However, Bando did not simply leg kick Nate and take him down every time he was in range, he also let Nate bang, bro, and consistently beat him to the punch with harder shots and better combinations.
Similarly, Rory did not fight an evasive fight against BJ like Conduit did so effectively against Nick Diaz, he came straight at BJ throwing hands confident that he could out box BJ, which he did.
Nate and BJ are excellent boxers in mma, but Rory and Bendo are simply better.
Well thought through response wfsalt. Here Nate explains how a punch from Bendo during an exchange of punches was the beginning of the end for him:
http://www.mmamania.com/2012/12/10/2214081/nate-diaz-eye-injury-ufc-on-fox-5-performance-ben-henderson-mma
Not sure Bendo is a better boxer than Nate but he is definitely a better all around striker. And in MMA that is what matters.