Author: Fighterside

While most boxers opt to fight out of one stance there is a rare breed of fighter who prefers to switch between orthodox and southpaw to confound and confuse their opponents. Switch hitting is a tough skill to master but if perfected can be utilized to master effect. In this article we will look at our top 5 switch hitters in boxing who set a leading example. The top 5 switch hitters to study are:

1. Marvin Hagler
2. Tyson Fury
3. Terrence Crawford
4. Naseem Hamed
5. Andre Ward

We will now review the unique switch hitting style of these boxers and how they used stance switching to their advantage in the ring.

1. Marvin Hagler

Hagler is a must have on any switch hitter list, due to his flexible style, versatile moves and a deadly jab. Despite being a right handed fighter, Hagler was predominantly trained as a southpaw, giving his jabs a force which often helped him gain the upper hand. He takes full advantage of these heavy blows by combining jabs with a series of feints and fast movements, forcing nis opponent to stay guessing right up until the last moment, and landing a killer jab when it is too late to respond.

Hagler is also responsible for delivering an impressive sledgehammer jab, which he maximises by controlling the entire situation effortlessly. A precision fighter, he tends to favour a series of diversionary skills such as feints, waiting for an opening to appear, in order to land his sledgehammer jab. Working at the mid to short range, he is patient enough to wait for an opening, and then delivered with plenty of power.

2. Tyson Fury

If we are looking for a multifaceted fighter, Tyson Fury is the man of the hour. He has a unique ability to switch his fighting style in the blink of an eye, keeping things fresh and versatile, and leaching his opponent constantly questioning his next move. He refuses to be simply labelled as a swarmer, a puncher or a brawler, but instead adopts an unorthodox hybrid style which incorporates all three – perfect for keeping the opponent on his toes.

By refusing to be pigeonholed into a particular style, Fury takes full advantage of his southpaw status, and ensures that the opponent is always on the defence. They are so busy trying to work out what he will do next, or the direction he will move in, that they do not have a chance to attack. Fury uses this discomfort to his full advantage, moving quickly and using the benefits of excellent agility to sweep in and take the jab, leaving the enemy reeling. Versatility is the true name of his game, and this ability to adapt, chameleon like, to his surroundings is what makes Fury a truly excellent switch hitter, and forms a major part of the secret to his success in the ring.

3. Terrence Crawford

A natural southpaw, Crawford uses this to add an element of surprise to his fights which help him to emerge victorious. His natural stance is to keep his body weight over the centre line, with shoulders head on, and the head in line with the rear feet – a contrast to the preferred position of many boxers, who favour the head in a central position between both feet. This simple alteration can be enough to confuse more orthodox opponents, who will have a tendency to overcommit with their jabs, causing their balance to falter, their power to reduce, and creating an opening for Crawford to take full advantage of. His unique stance also helps to automatically keep his shoulders square – this, in turn, offers a shortcut allowing him to counter any incoming jabs before they have a chance to make contact.

There is also a certain stillness to Crawford’s style; he limits his head movement, and minimises his lateral movement when fighting at long range. He also keeps things simple, focusing primarily on a flawless execution of the basics consistently throughout the fight, rather than combining several complex moves to a lower standard. Despite this, he is not afraid to make the most of feints and dizzying combinations of these basic moves, and the simplicity of this grants him stamina. He keeps going, relentlessly delivering deceptively simple hooks, jabs and feints as the opponent is gradually worn down, allowing him to reach in and deliver the killer blow when it is least anticipated, ensuring a win.

4. Naseem Hamed

Whenever in the ring, Hamed has long been compared to a snake in his fast, unexpected movements, sudden changes, and reflexive style. There is an unconventionality in everything he does, leaving his opponent constantly on the back foot and unsettled. He is known for a relaxed, almost casual fighting stance, which usually features his guard down and loose, but his body is coiled and prepared to strike at any moment. This confidence lends him power; cat-like reflexes mean that he is reacting to the opponents moves almost before they have realised them, and this helps to keep him one step ahead at any time.

That is not to say, however, that Hamed is simply a reactionary fighter; on the contrary, he is always second guessing the opponent, seeking the opportune moment to leap in and land his famous one-punch knockout.

5. Andre Ward

 Ward is another fighter with a tendency to amalgamate a number of styles into one, and this helps him keep his opponents on the edge. Jabs are his primary weapon of choice, and he once referred to the move as a “lost art” in the world of boxing. Not only does he use jabs as an offensive move, but he takes the opportunity to set up shots, and keep aggressive opponents at range, giving him time to deliver his move. His jabs are versatile and constantly moving, always targeting a different body part to keep the other fighter guessing, while the other hand is constantly parrying and blocking to prevent the enemy getting in too close. As well as focusing on jabs, Ward also recognises the importance of excellent footwork, and has demonstrated the efficiency of this by darting around the ring, ensuring the other player is always on the back foot both physically and psychologically.

Ward’s flexibility is one of his key strengths, and he has been likened to water for his ability to change form in the blink of an eye. This makes it tricky for his opponents to predict his next move; he is always adapting and changing, keeping him one step ahead, and allowing him to gradually wear down his opponent over the course of a fight. Once they are losing strength, he will go in with a killer blow and secure a confident win.

How To Succeed As A Switch Hitter

As we have seen, the top switch hitters recommended above all have a few factors in common: agility, versatility, and a close attention to footwork. Succeeding as a switch hitter is tricky, and requires speed as well as technique, and an ability to adapt when you need to, rather than be tempted to stick to a specific combination. There are a few essentials to bear in mind when practicing, and we will explore these below.

• Train Both Sides

It can be tempting to favour your dominant side when training, as this is where most of your focus and strength tends to be. In order to succeed as a switch hitter, however, you need to make sure that both sides of the body are treated equally, allowing you to build not only strength, but also balance and agility on both sides. This will enable you to react quickly to your opponents attempts, and throw them off balance by taking it to the other side without putting you at a disadvantage. Not only does this mean training on both sides, but also incorporating ambidextrousness into everyday life – even something as simple as brushing your teeth with both hands can really help.

• Use Your Strengths

One of the advantages of switch hitting is that it allows you to really play to your strengths; if you have a powerful straight with your right hand, but also need to use the same hand to deliver a stinging jab, switch hitting allows you to do both. By knowing where your strengths lie, you can design combinations to benefit these.

• Understand angles

Part of the power of switch hitting is the ability to switch your stance in order to gain the advantage over your opponent. During your training, it is essential that you practice getting used to achieving the optimum angle to attack; this will ensure that you are one step ahead at all times. In the simplest terms, the ‘angle’ refers to achieving a superior position on your opponent, ensuring that you are no longer in their ‘line of fire’, but that they are stuck in yours. Switch hitting means that you can continually achieve this, altering your stance depending on their plan of attack, and always subvert this before they have a chance to land a successful blow.

For many years, boxing has been dominated by shorter, smaller boxers. In this article we will focus on our top 5 boxers any shorter fighter should study. Learning by example will unlock the door to insider hints, tips and skills which can help you make the most of a smaller stature, and maximize your chances of victory. To help with your education, the top 5 short boxers to study are:

1. Roberto Duran
2. Floyd Mayweather
3. Manny Pacquiao
4. Vasyl Lomachenko
5. Ricardo Lopez

We will now review the highlights of each of these boxers and how they utilized their skills in the ring; by studying the best of the best, you can ensure that you gain the advantage each and every time, and make sure that you enjoy win after win, no matter the size of your opponent.

1. Roberto Duran

With a formidable reputation, Roberto Duran has earned his moniker as ‘Hands of Stone’ for good reason. A combination of fast movement, slick footwork, and the ability to avoid significant punishment are all winning weapons in his arsenal, helping to keep his fighting style fresh. He is also famous for his feints, allowing him to draw a reaction from the opponent, and plan his next move based on their reaction – this is an amazing opportunity to gain a valuable insight into the techniques and movements they may be planning, meaning that a shorter height is far less of a disadvantage. Duran also possesses an enviable ability to break rhythm without warning, having set up a seemingly predictable routine; this is key in blindsiding the opponent, allowing Duran to go in with an unexpected jab.

One of the major strengths demonstrated by Duran has to be his ability to read his competitor. This is a fighter who truly demonstrates the value of a strong psychological game, as well as an impressive physical technique. Through close observation, feints and tests, Duran is able to very quickly get the jump on the enemy, reading and predicting their moves and giving him time to offer a killer counter. Height is no obstacle here; with this valuable insider information, it is only a matter of time before he ends up the victor.

2. Floyd Mayweather

A discussion of smart fighters cannot continue without reference to Floyd Mayweather, whose ring IQ is often considered one of the best in the fame. He has an innate ability to predict and recognise a punch, and uses this foresight to his full advantage. Mayweather’s stance has long been a focal point of discussion; rather than face his opponent face to face, he typically adopts a side-on stance, left foot forward, and legs widely spaced. A shorter height is advantageous here; Mayweather uses this to create a low centre of gravity with weight distributed evenly, and this creates a solid foundation which offers the chance to duck, turn or recoil quickly, with minimal foot movement, helping to conserve valuable energy.

Not only does this famous stance help to ensure perfect balance, but it also sets Mayweather up as an impenetrable force from the get go. Any attacks from the right are blocked by his back or left arm, or can be easily absorbed long before they make contact with the chin. At the same time, Floyd favours keeping his right arm free where possible, helping him parry punches from the left. This combination helps ensure protection even from taller fighters, who are likely to expend a great deal of wasted energy on their missed blows. A low centre of gravity then allows Mayweather to dole out jabs and punches from a range of angles, leaving his opponent continually on the back foot and making it easier to gain the upper hand.

3. Manny Pacquiao

Manny Pacquiao is a fighter who blends speed, power, athleticism and raw talent into each and every fight he faces, and this deadly combination has helped him gain a crown as world champion. One of his key weapons is an incredible ability to use speed and stamina for a deadly combination of punches; a single 12 round fight once saw him throw over 1200 punches. This power, paired with a truly devastating left hand, allows Pacquiao to throw a series of combinations which leave opponents reeling from the volume, and they rarely have a chance to recover before he heads in with the next combo. In this, he is able to physically overwhelm his opponent with sheer volume and speed – competitors are left spinning as they try to keep up, and this can be particularly challenging for taller fighters, who expend more energy when they swing and miss.

As well as killer blows, Pacquiao also uses his agility to his advantage, with his footwork keeping him in continuous movement around the ring, and running circles around the enemy – usually literally – forcing them in closer as they attempt to land a blow. In this, Pacquiao is truly an inspiration to shorter fighters, demonstrating perfectly how a smaller stature lends itself to serious speed and agility which simply cannot be touched.

4. Vasyl Lomachenko

Vasyl Lomachenko is often likened to a dancer by boxing fans, and it is easy to see where he gets this reputation. With agile footwork, a lightness which belies his strength, and a flexible, intelligent way of moving, Lomachenko has no qualms about getting right into the space of his opponents, forcing them onto the defensive. He favours a combination of rapid quickfire jabs and feints which always have his opponents at a disadvantage.

Speed is a critical weapon in any boxers arsenal, especially those who lack the advantage of height. Lomachenko is well aware of this, and has the ability to come at his opponents from a range of angles, changing direction and angle with little warning to help ensure he obtains the upper hand. This also allows him to completely dictate the pace of each fight, as well as the range the battle is fought at. His combatants are constantly trying to keep up and predict his next move; this distracts them from the business of landing blows, allowing Lomachenko to strike and obtain the win.

5. Ricardo Lopez

Some boxers go their whole career with just a minimal amount of losses to their name, and are widely remembered and applauded for a successful winning streak. Ricardo Lopez, however, takes this to the next level – not only did he retire undefeated after a lengthy professional career, but he also never lost a fight when competing as an amaeteur. Such a legacy is not to be taken lightly, and is proof that a smaller stature is no obstacle to success. But how did he do it? Lopez’s success all comes down to his incredible ability to combine technique and power into every move, preferring to stay at close range and take his opponent out with a series of stunning combos, while the heart of his strength lay in technically perfect footwork which kept him constantly just out of reach of the enemy.

Using fast, neat footwork and exceptional agility, Lopez was a master at evading the blow from his opponent, before landing a brutal attack from the inside. He was also highly skilled at disguising his jabs, shifting his centre of gravity slightly onto the lead leg rather than stepping forward; this allowed him to build momentum and power, without warning the enemy that a jab was coming.

Shorter boxers often face a greater challenge than their taller counterparts, but that does not mean they cannot be incredible fighters. As we have seen from the legends above, there are a variety of trips and tricks you can employ to improve your technique, and help you gain the advantage.

• Stay Light

Agility and speedy footwork are a key tool used by all of the fighters we have discussed above, and can help a short fighter obtain a win. A smaller statute tends to mean you are lighter on your feet, making it easier to bob, weave and move around the ring. Focus on making sure that your footwork is as accurate as possible, and make sure that your training includes a good amount of agility work. Used correctly, this can help you to keep your opponent moving and swinging without landing a punch – the perfect chance to tire them out and keep them on the defence.

• Build Up Speed

Speed is a critical element of success, and we have seen how well this is employed by fighters such as  Pacquiao, who prefers to bombard his enemy with a dazzling combination of punches until they are forced to concede. This takes time, practice and accuracy, but putting in the hours can make a huge difference to your performance.

• Work on Your Jab

The jab is a major element of success for short fighters, and can be used in a variety of ways. Use your jab as a rangefinder to help ascertain the best spot of attack, and experiment with different angles and directions to deliver a killer blow when it matters the most.

If you’re a taller boxer there are plenty of tall fighters in boxing’s rich history for you to study in order to improve your technique, strategy and style. In this article we will focus on 5 who we think are great examples of fighting tall. The top five to make our list are:

1. Thomas Hearns
2. Tyson Fury
3. Larry Holmes
4. Diego Corrales
5. Paul Williams

Looking for inspiration? Read on: we will now review the highlights of each of these boxers and how they utilized their skills in the ring.

1. Thomas Hearns

Thomas Hearns is a key example of one to watch if you are on the hunt for inspiration from taller fighters. Famous for his renowned one-two, Hearns’s right hand jab is legendary, and was responsible for his success in a huge number of games. Hearns did not, however, coast solely on a single skill; he fingered out his strengths, and turned them to his advantage until they eclipsed any weaknesses.

A key weapon in his arsenal was arguably a hidden cross; by delaying the retraction of his hand until the last minute, he was able to obscure his competitors vision and keep the cross concealed until it was too late. Not only did this utilize the power of his lead hand, but it also turned his weaker hand into a devastating secret weapon. His preferred technique was to control the opponents head from the outside, using his height as an advantage to put pressure on the neck of the enemy, leaving them unbalanced.

Power was also a key aspect in Hearns’s play; any blow sent the power down to the floor, bypassing the opponents guard and shortening the arc to increase the force and follow through of the move, increasing the momentum even at close range, allowing him to get the better of the shorter opponent. This power was achieved by pulling back a hand, and suddenly sharply turning the elbow up at the final second, altering the trajectory of the blow. Combined with aggressive footwork, this combination allowed Hearns to maximise the impact of his powerful right hand, and use his height to his full advantage.

2. Tyson Fury

Best known for his defensive style, there is no denying that Fury’s reach – at an impressive 85 inches – is one of the major assets in his favour. Not only does this allow him to land more accurate blows with relative ease, but it also makes him tougher to touch, especially for average sized fighters. One of his major advantages is, however, his agility – despite measuring in as a heavyweight, he moves like a middleweight, and this can often throw opponents off their game. With agile footwork and a great sense of balance, Fury is in complete control of his bodyweight with every move, giving him the advantage and opportunity to weave and move before a blow has a chance to land.

Flexibility is another strength often displayed by Fury; he is a fighter just as comfortable on the inside as the outside, and has the ability to switch between the two with minimal fuss. He is also extremely versatile, being ready to switch style and moves at a moments notice – this is key in keeping opponents unbalanced and forced to go on the defensive, allowing Fury to deliver the killer blow. When it comes to ring IQ, he also has a strong reputation as the one to beat; a fighter smarter often allows him to gain the edge, even against a more powerful puncher.

3. Larry Holmes

Incredible jabs and formidable punching power have long defined the career of Larry Holmes, and his taller stance helped him to gain authority in both these areas. In addition to throwing an enormous amount of power behind each jab, Holmes also had the deadly accuracy and complete control to ensure that each and every blow was made to count; this ensured that there was no energy wasted with a swing and a miss.

Unlike a number of taller fighters who primarily use a jab as a range finder, Holmes was focused on hitting the mark with every punch, wasting no time and forcing his opponent to remain on the defensive until victory was assured. Once the fight was decided, Holmes would use his incredible punches in a deadly combo to put his opponents firmly on the ropes.

4. Diego Corrales

Corrales has a reputation as one of the pound for pound hardest punchers in the boxing world, and this is a skill he was more than happy to use to his advantage. His taller size helped to put power behind each punch, while a generous reach offered a significant advantage against shorter fighters. His style was aggressive and powerful, with a focus on using his significant height to close the gap on an opponent and finishing off the fight with a serious right hook.

Perhaps one of the best lessons we can learn from Corrales is the power of perseverance. This is a fighter who emerged victorious despite incredible odds, and who simply refused to lie down and admit defeat, proving that sometimes a win is as much about mindset as movement in the ring.

6. Paul Williams

When it comes to signature moves, Paul Williams is best known for delivering impressive hooks and uppercuts on the inside. His versatility is often touted as one of his major strengths; Williams was known for continually switching up angles and changing direction, forcing his opponents onto the back foot both literally and figuratively. He is also known for being far less risk averse than more cautious fighters, and this seemed to offer a confidence and unpredictability which is intimidating to opponents.

Williams is often criticised for his lack of guard, resulting in him remaining wide open and at the mercy of his competitor. This is a valid discussion, and one which is important for taller fighters looking to learn a lesson from the pros; Williams’ open stance has often been detrimental, and at the source of many of the losses he suffered in the ring. As a taller fighter, you are at the mercy of the speed and agility of a shorter fighter, so this is a great chance to learn from Williams’ mistake, and make sure you protect yourself from the jabs of shorter fighters.

There is a misconception that an increased height makes it tougher for tall boxers to succeed, but the examples above prove that this does not have to be the case. Learning how to use your height to your full advantage is the key here; taller fighters often benefit from a longer reach, increased bodyweight, and the ability to apply higher levels of pressure to opponents. Through studying the fighters discussed above, there are a few key lessons which are extremely valuable for taller fighters.

• Make the most of jabs

Taller fighters typically benefit from a longer reach – but this is useless if you do not use it properly. While it can be tempting to retain your jabs for range finding, heading in with a short, fast jab can be unexpected when coming from a taller fighter – this could be enough of a shock to allow you to gain a significant advantage over your opponent. The hidden cross favoured by Hearns can be a real game changer here; it allows you to gain the upper hand and the element of surprise, which could be the difference between victory or loss. In essence; learn what people expect from taller fighters, and keep them on their toes (literally!) by offering the opposite.

• Neutralise your opponent

A key player missing from our list above is Lennox Lewis; a boxer with a real knack for neutralising his opponents by taking away their basic bread and butter. Most fighters will have a preferred or signature move – getting to understand this as early as possible allows you to put the steps in place to neutralise it, allowing you to eliminate any disadvantage which may have been obtained by your height.

• Make it count

One of the major disadvantages often faced by taller fighters is the energy wasted if your blow does not hit its mark. Due to an increased height, a missed punch can force you to follow through with the swing, offsetting your balance in a way which could be disastrous. Be sure to channel Holmes in making sure that each and every blow meets its mark, and that it is designed to count.

• Don’t neglect footwork

Tyson Fury is a prime example of how clever footwork can help you gain that winning edge, and it is a skill often overlooked by taller fighters. This not only helps you to move more quickly, but it also offers a chance to gain better control over your bodyweight, meaning you are less likely to come off balance if your opponent gains an unexpected win. By forcing the competitor onto the backfoot, you can take full advantage of any opening and use your power to follow through with a killer blow.

Using your height to your advantage in boxing is of great benefit when maintaining distance and frustrating your opponent. Height, however, can also be used when fighting on the front foot and applying pressure. In this article, we will explore 5 themes every tall pressure boxer should consider when in the ring.

5 Tips For Tall Pressure Boxers:

1. Stiff Jab
2. Cut Off The Ring
3. Defensive Responsibility
4. Dictate The Pace
5. Counter Punching

First off, pressure boxing requires that you must be in great shape and be light on your feet. You must have the stamina to wear out your opponent. These themes are relatively easy for you because you have a longer reach. Now, let’s check out each one in some detail.

1.Stiff Jab

The jab is one of the most fundamental boxing techniques. It’s not as powerful as an uppercut, or some other punches, but it’s the mother of all punches. In fact, Mohammed Ali used it most of the time. It’s a tool for probing your opponent’s distance and range, and so it’s great for setting up more powerful punches. It’s easy for tall boxers because they have longer arms. They can use stiff jabs swiftly to upset their opponent and set up more formidable punches. As the name suggests, it’s a hard, straight punch that’s executed with lightning speed. Savvy boxers know there’s danger coming after most jabs. So don’t be predictable. Feign moves. “Dance” like the “greatest”, as you leverage the stiff jab to set up more lethal punches. It also helps you gauge your opponent’s dexterity.

2.Cut Off The Ring

It’s great that you’re fast, can punch well, and can defend yourself. But, if you want to excel, you must learn how to own the ring. You must use it to your advantage. The goal when you cut off the ring is to reduce the space within which your opponent can operate. You want to reach a point where you’ve trapped them such that they have no place to run.  It’s a more efficient way to approach a fight. Instead of chasing them all over a big ring, get them trapped in a corner. That way, you can unleash more lethal punches. After all, you’ve constrained them.

 So, how can you cut off the ring?

Don’t chase ‘em. That negates what you’re trying to do. Naturally, they’d keep running if you’re chasing them. Set a trap for them, by positioning yourself in such a way that they’d have restricted space. You should move sideways, instead. They’d most likely move backward, you keep moving forward and trap them along the ropes. Mimic their moves: If they move to the right, do likewise. If they move to the left, do the same. Psychologically, this makes them feel crowded and takes you closer to them.

You can also bounce in and out while retaining the ground you’ve gained. You lean in, throw some jabs, and then lean back to protect yourself, while you’re gradually edging toward them and ensuring they can’t reclaim the space you’ve “conquered”. Don’t rush, don’t be aggressive. Leverage jabs and then unleash a flurry of power punches.

      3.Defensive Responsibility

You can’t excel at pressure boxing if your defense responsibility is weak. Defense and offense are not two disconnected things. They are complements. So, it’s not enough to be a master of deadly punches. If you don’t close your guard. If you leave openings that your opponent can easily take advantage of, a shorter, stockier, more calculated, and perhaps less-skilled boxer may overwhelm you, if they see a great opening. So, you can’t think that the offense is superior. The truth is, both offense and defense must be coordinated.

In fact, one of the goals of great defense responsibility is to set up a great offense. So, as you’re attacking, you must be fluid, speedy, and smart with your defense. What are some of the most effective defenses you can employ? They include Footwork, rolling, slipping, parrying, countering, and blocking. Let’s look at each one.

Footwork entails coordinating your movement, such that you can evade most of the opponent’s offense. In fact, apart from dodging, there are times you have to flee. But it’s also great for tiring out your opponent. Ali was exceptional at it.

Rolling is about deflecting the punches even when they land. The truth is that a lot of punches would land. Rolling is a proactive way of minimizing their impact on your body and head. One of its upsides is that you can counter punch while you roll. The shoulder roll is probably the most widely used.

Slipping entails evasion. You avoid the oncoming punches and at the same time position yourself for a counter punch. It’s super-effective when you can execute it well. It requires tons of training to get right. So, you can be punched badly if you miss.

Parrying has the same aim as blocking — you don’t wanna get hit. It’s unlike the roll, where you act as if getting hit comes with the territory.  When you parry you use your hand to deflect the punch lightly. Kinda like brushing it aside. It can be highly effective. It’s also a great way to wear out an opponent. But you’d have a hard time if your opponent is super-fast with their punches!

Countering is something we all learned when we were kids. “Offense is the best defense.” Here the goal is not to defend yourself passively. But to attack as you defend. You’d have to be very good at it to make it work, because each time you attack, you’re also making yourself vulnerable. But it’s great if your timing and coordination are superb.

Blocking is self-explanatory. You block the punches. It’s probably the most basic defense in the books. It requires being alert, nimble, and strong. If you’re not strong, it’d be hard to block. But blocking is a must if you don’t want to be damaged. If you can wield it well, you’d be able to prevent a good number of the punches directed at your head and body from reaching you.

But which technique is the best, you might ask. There isn’t anyone that’s ideal for all scenarios. You have to read the trajectory of the fight and decide in a jiffy. The best boxers don’t use these defense techniques one at a time. Oh, no. Their power is heightened when you chain them together.

4.Dictate The Pace

The pace is a measure of how fast or slow you’re delivering punches and controlling the fight. It’s a vital measure because all things being equal, the dude that dictates the pace is likely going to be the winner. If you’re slow and being a follower, you could be sucker-punched by someone who’s swift and powerful. Hopkins and Mayweather are great at dictating the pace. Technical superiority, power, footwork, and speed are some vital variables to pay attention to in dictating the pace.

If you can throw 5 punches in 10 seconds, while your opponent can throw 20 power ones, it’s obvious that you’ve got your work cut out for you. If you’d like to dictate the pace, you want to be the predator, not the prey.

5.Counter Punching

Counter punching is an advanced skill. So, you’d need to devote enough time to get it. It’s the very opposite of waiting passively in a defensive position as a brawler or pressure boxer unleashes a flurry of blows at you. When you’re hip to counter punching, you’re studying them and looking for loopholes in their offense, so that you can counter (retaliate). To be effective, you need to be nimble, such that you’ve known the path of the punch before it lands, and you’re almost automatically meeting it “midair.”

You can see that it requires a lot. No matter how formidable your opponent, each time they attack you, they leave an opening. Effective counter-punching is about exploiting those openings. And, you’re also using the distance to create openings for yourself. You’re joggling ring intelligence, patience, timing, the accuracy of punches. Counter punching is highly involved and yet, it’s a must-know skill if you don’t want to be mauled.

There’s a lot to effective counter punching that it’s better we explore it in a dedicated article.

Before we call it a wrap, let’s also check out something that’d be awesome for tall pressure boxers. Your height and long arms are a blessing. No doubt. But don’t become cocky. As you probably know, our strengths can also be our weaknesses. It’s a function of the context. So wield stuff you’re good at, but don’t forget to work on those that need improvement. You don’t want any to prove to be your Achilles’ heels when you’re in the Octagon!

I’d suggest that you work on the following. Some tall dudes suck at them.

They include:

• Endurance
• Punch recovery
• Coordination
• Speed
• Power
• Balance
• Agility

Work on ’em and take your pressure boxing to a lethal level.

Being a shorter fighter you may be taught to try and fight on the inside and focus on hooks and uppercuts when in the ring. While that may be true being a shorter boxer doesn’t necessarily mean you can neglect your jab. In this article we will explore 5 ways to improve your jab as a shorter boxer.

There are five main tricks which can really help shorter boxers to improve their jab, and these are:

1. Use Your Jab As A Range Finder
2. Use Angles To Your Advantage
3. Jab And Slip
4. Practice Timing
5. Double Jab

Read on to discover everything you need to know about these tips and tricks, and see how you could take your jab to the next level – regardless of your size!

1. Use Your Jab As A Range Finder

Knowing how to use range to your advantage can be a real make or break moment in any match, and shorter fighters have the advantage here. Understanding range is basically understanding your position in relation to your opponent; the top boxers will have this calculated down to the nearest millimeter. Being able to find your range can give you the upper hand, and you are likely to find yourself in one of five categories:

• Out of Range

As the name suggests, staying out of range means that there is enough distance between opponents for neither to land a shot – this is typically calculated as being the length of your extended arm, plus a width of a fist. In this position, there is no threat on either side, and too much of this can result in a flat and unfulfilling fight.

• Edge of Range

If out of range is the length of an extended arm plus a fist width, the edge of range refers to anywhere in the space of that extra fist. Being able to work out when you are on the edge of range is important; it adds extra pressure on your opponent, offering a psychological advantage, and keeping them on edge. It also only requires a short move forwards to ensure that you are within striking distance for long range shots; the move is powerful and explosive, while still allowing you to remain on the edge of range while you plan your next move.

• Long Range

This is the space which allows you to deploy any long range shots, such as jabs and crosses, and can be a great way for shorter boxers to keep taller opponents on the back foot, allowing you to test the field prior to an explosive short range attack.

• Mid Range

The mid range is determined as the area from the length of an extended arm, to the point where a right hook would land. Here is where you start to build up real power with your shots, with hooks and uppercuts in particular becoming increasingly deadly. This has often been considered one of the best spaces for shorter fighters; you can move from long to mid range quickly, delivering a devastating blow before retreating, or catching your opponent off guard to continue the attack. Moves are short, sharp and explosive.

• Short Range

The short range is where the true power lies, and allows you and your opponent to go head to head. Shorter fighters will be able to maximise their body type, delivering strong, powerful shots which also protect you; the moves are fast, leaving the opponent little time to defend themselves.

When used correctly, the rangefinding jab can be the perfect way to set up a serious power punch with the dominant hand. It allows you to conserve stamina and energy, and removes the risk of wiping out on a punch which misses the mark. Instead, you can feel confident you are within range, and commit your stronger hand at the perfect moment.

2. Use Angles To Your Advantage

There is a common misconception that a shorter height will automatically put you at a disadvantage – but this is only the case if you allow it to be. Shorter fighters are more compact, and this allows you to use angles to your full advantage, placing yourself in positions which make it tricky for your opponent to go in with a long, straight jab – this can cause them to lose balance, offering a perfect opportunity for you to jump in, Similarly, make sure you throw your jabs at angles – taller fighter will take fractionally longer to respond to the change, and this can help you gain and keep the upper hand in no time.

Figure out the blindspots; as a smaller fighter, you have the advantage of speed and agility. With practice, you will learn to hunt down the blindspots of taller fighters, and use these to angle your blows more effectively.

3. Jab And Slip

The jab and slip combo is one which has the potential to be lethal if performed correctly, and can be particularly advantageous to smaller fighters whose reduced height offers them increased agility and the ability to move more quickly. As the name suggests, the move involves slipping past your opponents punch, and using their temporary loss of balance to get in a short, sharp jab. Speed is essential here; you need to be able to anticipate the move of your taller opponent, and move your head to one side at the last possible minute. This will force them to follow the move through, and offsets their balance just enough for you to make your move – as a smaller fighter, this can usually be right to the core, or a swipt uppercut beneath the jaw.

4. Practice Timing

Getting your timing right is critical for any fighter, but it can be particularly useful to those who lack height. One of the key advantages to a smaller physique is the speed and agility which can be obtained; your reduced height will usually mean that you weigh slightly less, and this allows you to use the weight of your opponent against them. The difference made can sometimes come down to nanoseconds, but this still offers a chance to grab and keep the advantage. 

Practice your footwork and short range attacks; these are most likely to be where your power lies, and will allow you to really use a shorter stature to turn the fight your way.

5. Double Jab

Mastering the double jab should be a priority for a shorter fighter, and can give you the edge you need – as the name suggests, this is literally two jabs with opposite hands in quickfire succession. For best results, get right to the edge of range for your opponent, and ensure that your back foot is beneath your body. Carefully sneak your lead food into range, and catch the jab thrown at you. Use your weight to transfer your power forward, and follow this with your own double jab – this allows you to really take your opponent by surprise and gain the advantage. As you fight, you will be able to ascertain and predict timing; use this to slip outside, and jab at the same time as the other fighter moves, followed immediately by another short jab; this combination is perfect for taking the enemy by surprise.

Other Techniques To Improve Your Jab

Working on your jab will help give you more confidence in the ring, as well as enable you to make the most of your strength and power, and use your shorter height to your full advantage. Some of the following techniques can help you to really hone these skills, and give you the weapons you need to win.

Footwork

Footwork is one of the most important skills to master for the shorter boxer; this could be the difference between victory and defeat. Neat, fast footwork allows you to get on the inside without sustaining severe damage; you can neatly slip and bob the opponent jabs, and be in their space before they have a chance to react. 

Balance

Additionally, speedy footwork allows you to use your opponent’s height against them to gain the advantage – it takes more energy to swing and miss than is used in a direct hit, and this is especially true if you use your footwork to keep them at the edge of range – they will have to put their full power into the jab, only to be unbalanced when you are no longer there. Make sure you focus on your balance and agility in collaboration with your footwork; use your more compact frame to help you dart around the ring and keep your enemy guessing.

Speed

Shadow boxing drills are your new best friend when it comes to improving your jab – this is the secret to picking up speed. When practiced correctly, shadow boxing allows you to build muscle and strength, as well as forcing you to focus on your balance, form and technique. Many of us pick up bad habits when fighting, such as looking down or being lazy with footwork – both of these will put you at a disadvantage. Shadow Boxing drills offer a chance to work out any bad habits, and commit the correct form and technique to muscle memory ready for the next fight. For best results, mix things up with a combination of crosses, jabs, uppercuts and combos in each session; this will help you achieve a great full body workout, as well as running through the basic skills.

Finally

Though it may not initially feel that way, shorter boxers have a number of ways to get the better of taller fighters, and much of this relies on honing their jabs. By learning the moves which work, and adding a wealth of tips and tricks to your arsenal, you will be in the perfect position to take your enemy by surprise, deliver that killer blow, and gain the advantage in a fight – no matter how great the height difference.