I've never seen a pack of any one class try to take on a boss.
My level 33 Paladin wins pretty much all one on one fights however, whether it be PvE or PvP. The only class that can get me easily is a Priest that has manaburn.
If they're equipment isn't meant for fighting, then I guess fighter's aren't meant for fighting.....given that Paladin's can use the same melee weapons as a fighter.
The biggest disadvantage of the Paladin is the inability to pull a guy.