In
Boxing, this is a
side-by-side listing of important statistics about the two boxers. Of major importance are their match statistics, weight, height and
reach. Also listed are measurements of most of their bodies. The phrase, of course, comes from the fact that most of these
stats are taken with a
tape measure, and can sometimes tell the tale of the
bout before it starts.
The phrase is also used for any other sport (or whatever) where statistics are being compared.