Category: Boxing

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.

To be able to throw and land effective punches as a tall boxer, we’ve put together 5 key tips to remember while training.

5 tips for taller boxers are

1. Protect The Body
2. Use Range To Your Advantage
3. Drown Your Opponent
4. Use The Jab
5. Improve Your Hand Speed

With these tips, you’ll be able to outmatch your opponent who seems to have a slight advantage. Read on for a more detailed guide on how to fight as a taller boxer. 

How to Fight as a Tall Boxer

Contrary to popular belief, fighting with a shorter opponent is no easy feat. Here are a few tips to help you impose yourself.

1. Protect the Body

The taller a fighter is, the bigger a target they present to their opponent. Tall boxers must always be mindful of protecting their bodies. It is easy for a shorter fighter to duck under their punches, targeting their ribs and midsection. Not only does this make you lose points, but it also wears you down in the course of a fight.

Body shots are very effective offensive tools because they take the wind out of you and cause you to breathe heavily. This hampers your offense and slows down your movement.  You can be sure a shorter opponent will take advantage of this and use this strategy when facing you so you can use these strategies.

• Block and Parry

Blocking and parrying is the best way to improve your defense. This requires constant practice and good hand-eye coordination as you must quickly anticipate your opponent’s next move and counter it accordingly. The most common form of defense against body shots is extending the elbows to cover your ribcage and part of the midsection. Use your elbows and twist your body to block shots coming in at your sides. Parrying is the more effective technique, whereby you deflect your opponent’s blow and set up a counter.

• Train Your Core

A strong midsection is better conditioned to taking body shots. Exercises such as leg raise, flutter kicks, and crunches are a good start. However, the best way to train your core is by sparring. This will give you a real-world simulation of what it is like to take body shots.

Your sparring partner should focus on attacking your body so you can get used to defending against such blows. Rotate your body in the opposite direction of your sparring partner’s punch. This is called ‘rolling with the punch.’ This is also the perfect time to practice blocking and parrying body shots.

2. Use Range to Your Advantage

Taller boxers have the advantage both at long range and at short range, as they can hit their opponents without getting hit and can lean back to dodge a blow to the head. Shorter fighters only have the advantage in mid-range. Mike Tyson’s first loss by knockout was to James “Buster” Douglas, a fighter who was much taller at 6’4 and had greater reach.

The further away your opponent is, the greater the advantage. Keeping your opponent away with jabs is a good strategy. That way, you conserve your energy while getting your opponent to waste his. Lead with power shots and wait for him to get into mid-range to deliver the knockout. 

3. Learn the Drowning Style

This passive-aggressive fighting style is perfect for tall boxers who don’t like to block punches. “Drowning” refers to taking an opponent into the late rounds, defeating them using experience and endurance. This fighting style was popular with legends like Vitaly and Vladimir Klitschko, as well as Oscar De La Hoya and Thomas Hearns.

Drowning keeps pressure on your opponent by following them around the ring, allowing you to wear them out while utilizing less energy. You don’t have to hit your opponent hard, you just have to keep them on the retreat, and when they bounce back, you should be prepared to dodge their counter. Drowning Style is a fairly intermediate fighting style, which means it is relatively easy to learn. 

Here is how you can drown your opponent.

• Find the “Sweet Spot”

Size up your opponent’s range. Find the distance at which they cannot strike you, but you can strike them. Fortunately, it is easier to do this when you are taller or have longer arms than your opponent. Taking a small step back (it doesn’t have to be both feet; even the back foot will do) pulls you out of range but still gives you an opening for a counter-attack.

When your opponent strikes back, they should be swinging in the air. This is a great way to trap your opponent in the corner. Backtrack when they swing at you, and then step forward again to keep the pressure on them.

• Footwork

The Drowning Style relies more on footwork than punching. Tall boxers should practice stepping in and out of their opponent’s range inches at a time, even as they chase them around the ring. Footwork, along with counterpunching and range control, is arguably the most important part of drowning. 

• Keep Pressure on Your Opponent

Invade your opponent’s space. Give them no breathing room. Follow them around the ring. Jab at them constantly. Again, your blows don’t have to be hard, just constant and unyielding.

Even pushing them away when they attempt to move in is enough. The goal is to keep your opponent uncomfortable and on the retreat. Drowning, as the name implies, should be slow and methodical.

• Counterpunch

Counterpunches are the cornerstone of defensive techniques in boxing. When your opponent misses a blow, you counter immediately after backing up. As the taller fighter, your punches will typically come from over the top. It’s easier to counter if you bend your knees before your opponent strikes. This will give him a lower target. Immediately your opponent strikes, unbend your knees slightly, lift yourself out of the way and counter with an overhand right or left hook.  

4. Use Jabs

The height and range that taller fighters have, make jabs their go-to move. Use jabs to keep your opponent at bay, to wear down their resolve, and to irritate them into making mistakes. Don’t worry about power; focus on speed and accuracy. Remember,  it is relatively easy for your opponent to dodge jabs if they can see them coming.  Mix it up with long right hands to catch them off guard and set up counterpunches.

5. Work on Your Hand Speed

Taller boxers tend to have larger, heavier frames and longer arms. This means that their punches are slower on average than shorter boxers. If you are a tall boxer, it’s important to work on your hand speed. There’s no use having an advantage in range if you can’t land your punches in time. These methods will help increase your hand speed:

• Weighted Shadowboxing
• Plyometric Pushups
• Speed Bag Drills

Advantages of Being a Tall Boxer

All things being equal, taller boxers almost always are superior to shorter boxers. Even at the elite level, it is rare to see a successful shorter boxer who doesn’t have another outstanding skill or ability, for example, great hand speed, physical power, or agility.

• Range

Taller boxers have a greater range. At a certain distance, they can hit shorter fighters but cannot be hit by them.

• Easier to Land Headshots

Because their shorter opponents have to punch upwards, they overextend themselves and leave their heads unprotected. This makes them an easy target. Their heads are also closer to the taller fighter’s hands. 

• Clinching/Crushing Opponents

This is a common technique used by boxers to stall or frustrate their opponents. This refers to grabbing an opponent’s arms to stop them from punching. Taller fighters can easily clinch their opponents. In crushing, you put all your body weight onto your opponent. This depletes their stamina very quickly from your body, weighing them down, preventing them from moving or fighting back.

Taller boxers have a higher center of gravity, meaning they can always lean on their opponents, but their opponents cannot do the same. In a fight, simply grab your opponent and lean on him. There’s nothing he can do about it.

Get That Shot In

Tall boxers often have a reputation for being slow, clumsy, uncoordinated, and unfit, but some of the best boxers in the world also happen to be giants in the ring, like the Klitschko brothers, who are nearly seven feet tall. 

With the proper training and approach, taller boxers can dominate their competition by utilizing their superior range, higher center of gravity, and height difference to their advantage. Working on your hand speed, training your core, and blocking or parrying punches will help defend against the natural advantage shorter fighters have in the ring. Endurance and skill can always be worked on in the gym, but body composition and height is down to genetics and nothing else. 

One of the reasons Sugar Ray Robinson is remembered is because of his ability to box moving backward.  Knowing how to shift your weight is an integral part of boxing and will help you out of sticky situations in the ring. Proper footwork and stance are fundamental and cannot be stressed enough.

To box off the back foot successfully, you will need to learn how to keep your legs straight, stand tall, rotate on the balls of your feet, lower your center of gravity and create space. 

In boxing, fundamentals are the basis of every move you make. With these basics, you will be able to  fight comfortably in situations that require you to shift your weight to your back foot, such as when moving backward, pivoting, and countering.Read on to learn how to box off the back foot to improve your chances inside the ring.

How to Box off the Back Foot

Suppose you are leaning back while boxing; you keep your distance from your opponent. It is excellent for beginners and experienced fighters alike. If you like to fight defensively or use counterpunches, then this is the ideal fighting style for you. You can keep your opponents away using jabs and hooks, and placing weight on your back foot pulls your head off-center, making it harder for your opponent to hit. You can also block their right hand with your left shoulder.

Moving ‘in and out’ is an essential skill that all fighters must master. Boxing depends on understanding and manipulating your position in relation to your opponent. Back foot boxing helps control range, which in turn controls the pace of the bout. 

1. Keep Your Legs Straight

Typically in boxing, you bend your knees. It allows you to spring up and deliver explosive punches and moves forward to close the distance with your enemy quickly. However, when boxing on your back foot you are adopting a more defensive and elusive stance. 

You want to avoid getting hit by stepping back from your opponent’s punches and continuously moving around him. Muhammad Ali was a master of this technique, and a cursory glance at his fights will show that he mostly kept his legs straight while dancing around his opponents in the ring. Keeping your legs straight will allow your body to move more efficiently. 

2. Stand Tall

The spine is the axis of movement in the body. If you stand upright and tall, it is easier to shift your weight onto your back foot. Note that the spine is not the ORIGIN of movement, but it is a POINT of action. So, don’t hunch your back or tighten your shoulders too much. It’s crucial to remain loose and relaxed, so you can push off of your back foot and attack your opponent or shift the weight back onto it whenever necessary. A rigid upper body hampers the movement and flexibility of your lower body.

3. Rotate on the Balls of Your Feet

To move gracefully, you should distribute your body weight on the balls of your feet. This type of ‘rolling’ movement is the most efficient for back foot boxing as it allows you to shift your weight to move around or away from your opponent in a fraction of a second. When pushing backward, push off the ball of your foot. It forces your body away from its original position with more power than if you had stepped back with your heels first. Stepping on and off of the metatarsal bones in your feet generates power, increases your agility and the control of your movement.

4. Lower Your Center of Gravity

If you watch recorded footage of boxers who like to fight on the back foot, you will notice that they tend to drop their front hand. You will also see that their head will lean towards the direction of the foot with more weight (back foot). Both the hand and the head positions are a result of the distribution of their body weight. It is because lowering your hand(s) helps you maintain balance. It also allows you to move your head and body more. You don’t have to lower your hands down to your sides. That would leave you defenseless. Dropping them down to chin or chest level is enough to do the trick.

5. Create Space

Whenever your opponent starts to attack you, create space for yourself by stepping back or moving out of the way. The objective is not to run but rather to position your body just outside his striking range. Not only does this frustrate your opponent, but it also allows you to study his movements, have some breathing room, and set him up for a counterpunch.

How NOT to Box on your Back Foot

Apart from covering up, everything else in boxing comes with its risks, mostly when not done correctly. Here is a list of mistakes to avoid when boxing off your back foot.

• Don’t Run

As explained above, running is not the goal of back foot fighting. It might seem like the easy option, but it’s not very useful unless, of course, you are far ahead of your opponent on the judge’s scorecard. If you are too far from your opponent, you’ll waste valuable energy trying to close in and hit him with counterpunches. 

• Don’t Fight on the Inside

Fighting on the inside puts you up close with the enemy. The objective is to keep some distance between you and your adversary, not too close, not too far. You should be just outside your opponent’s striking range. After you’ve worn him out by continually moving around and stepping back from his attacks, it can be tempting to close the distance and assault your enemy with a flurry of head and body shots to achieve a quick knockout or knockdown.

DO NOT do this. Back foot fighting relies on defensive and evasive maneuvers. 

• Don’t Drop Your Guard

Fighting on the back foot and relying on counterpunches doesn’t mean you get to neglect your defensive boxing skills. Never leave your head or body unprotected. It only takes one good head or liver shot to end the fight. Use a high guard to protect your head, and drop your arms or roll your body to defend against combos to your body and head. Keep your enemy at a distance but watch his fists. Don’t let him catch you when you’re vulnerable.

Remember to keep a clear line of sight between you and your opponent so you can see what he’s doing. Distance only diminishes the threat; it does not eliminate it. Just keep your head down close and keep punching.

• Don’t Be Predictable

You can retreat and dance around your opponent all you want. In the end, you won’t defeat him if all you do is telegraph your punches by throwing jabs at him when he gets too close. Mix up your attacks and counterpunches with a variety of jabs, crosses, and uppercuts.

Advantages of Boxing off the Back Foot

Shifting your weight to your rear foot comes with its advantages. Here is an in-depth look at some of them.

Conserve Energy

Back foot fighting allows you to save your strength and stamina for counterpunches. If you do it right, your opponent will be swinging at air, tiring them out. This technique also works to frustrate them and their strategy.

Protect Yourself

Staying out of range or just outside the range of your opponent means you can avoid getting hit.  Keep them at bay with jabs and hooks and dance around them when they move in for the attack. Muhammad Ali’s “Rope a Dope” tactics utilized this tactic to maximize efficiency. By allowing his opponent to exert himself by pursuing him and swinging at a target he just couldn’t hit, Joe Frazier got defeated. In simple terms, your opponent can’t hurt you if he can’t hit you.

Study Your Opponent

Keeping your distance from your opponent lets you study his movement and anticipate his next attack. It also allows you to set him up for a counterpunch.

Improves Timing

Back foot boxing teaches you to perfect your timing when delivering counterpunches and retreating from attacks. The ability to read your opponent’s body language and anticipate his next attack lets you plan for counters and gives you the edge when it comes to knockouts or knockdowns.

Leave Your Opponents Stunned

Back foot boxing is perfect for defensive fighters and counter punchers. It conserves energy, helps you control the pace of the bout, and the distance between you and your opponent, sets them up for counterpunches, and it gives you some breathing room in the ring. This fighting style is ideal for beginners and intermediates alike. 

This elusive and flamboyant fighting style was popularized by boxers such as Sugar Ray Robinson and Muhammad Ali. They were experts at dancing around their opponents and wearing them down by evading their attacks and frustrating their game-plan. 

The best fighters are experts at the basics, and if you want to be a good boxer, you will have to master fighting on the back foot. Practice with your sparring partner, have him attack you relentlessly in the ring so you can practice stepping back from and stepping around his attacks as well as delivering counterpunches.

When it comes to boxing, the argument of headshots vs. body shots is as old as the combat sport itself. Some swear by headshots because of their ability to deliver a quick knockout; others prefer body shots because they are easier to use to score points. Good boxers know that it is important to mix both headshots and body shots in a fight.

Effectively throwing a body shot requires you to move your body and generate some momentum, fighting on the inside, and lastly, being unpredictable.  There is a lot more to boxing than just throwing punches. Body shots are usually harder to throw, requiring excellent timing and caution on the fighter’s part not to leave themselves open to a knockout punch.

Here is a guide to help you perfect this art.

How to Throw Body Shots

Throwing an effective body shot requires practice and technique. Here are a few pointers to help you land downstairs in your next fight.

1. Move Your Body

To give body shots weight, the force of the blow should come from your whole body rotating and leaning into the punch. Rotate your trunk as you punch. It will put maximum pressure on the impact. Understand powerful punches are heavy punches, not fast punches. After all, power is defined as acceleration multiplied by the mass. It means there must be some weight behind your body punches for them to be effective—swing with your whole body, not just your arms.

2. Generate Momentum

Along with leaning into the punch, you should also generate momentum from your legs. Remember that your legs have some of the biggest and strongest muscles in your body. Plant your feet firmly, drive the tension up through your hips and into your upper body as you swing. The more reliable your footing is, the more powerful your body punch will be.

3. Fight on the Inside

As a taller boxer, you are probably accustomed to fighting on the outside. This is where you have a natural advantage in range and height. However, body shots require an up-close and personal approach to be used effectively. Fighting on the inside allows you to control the distance between you and your opponent. The closer you are to them, the better positioned you are to land a devastating liver shot.

4. Be Unpredictable

The most important aspect of body shots is to be unpredictable. Don’t telegraph your punches. It shouldn’t be obvious where and when you’re going to strike. Don’t just swing at your opponent’s stomach and ribs. Utilize combos and mix it up. Use jabs and straights for the head, then hooks and uppercuts to the body. Always keep your opponents guessing about your next target.

5. Why Body Shots Are Better

Despite their effectiveness, body shots are underutilized by most boxers, especially taller boxers, who prefer to go for their opponent’s head. Yet body shots can be even more devastating than headshots. Fighters like Mike Tyson and Bas Rutten were known for their brutal punches to the gut and ribs. Here’s why you should use body shots more often in the ring.

6. Cripple Your Opponents

A headshot might stun your opponent momentarily or knock them down if it connects, but a clean body shot will have his knees wobbling and lungs gasping for air. If you’ve ever taken a punch to the liver, then you know the pain of a well-placed punch to the body and how it can leave you crumpled on the floor gasping. Even a fairly weak punch to the solar plexus will knock the breath right out of your opponent’s body and leave them totally disoriented.

7. Slow Down the Opposition

The best way to impair an elusive opponent’s mobility is with a flurry of body punches. A good body shot will knock the air out of your opponent. This will cause them to breathe heavily and raggedly, which in turn affects their movement. They become slow and cautious, each blow making them shrink further away from you.  This neutralizes their offense and makes their movements sluggish.

8. They are Much Harder to Block

The head is a very small target, a target that your opponent will bob and weave almost non-stop to prevent you from striking it. The body is a much larger target, one that is not so easily moved out of the way. All you have to do is get on the inside and hammer away at the chest, gut, and ribs. Your opponent can try to roll with the punches or back up to get some breathing room, but they won’t be able to do much about you constantly hitting them all over. Body shots are a great offensive tool for aggressive boxers. Your constant assault will wear down their energy and prevent them from coming at you.

9. Body Shots Hurt

Effective headshots produce knockdowns and knockouts, but they rarely hurt because your opponent is too busy being unconscious to feel anything. This is why seemingly miraculous recoveries are so common in the ring. You knocked your opponent out, but they didn’t feel any pain. They don’t fear you as much. They get right back up as if nothing happened. Body shots, on the other hand, leave their mark. It’s not common for a body shot to drop your opponent, but when they do, you can be sure they’ll remember it.   A liver shot causes sharp, debilitating pain that will stay with your opponent for the duration of the fight and long afterward. Bernard Hopkins knocked out Oscar De La Hoya with a clean liver shot.

10. Body Shots set up Headshots

The sweet irony of body shots is that they set your opponent up for headshots. How is this possible? It’s quite a simple strategy. The more you attack his body, the more his arms drop to protect themselves, leaving his head exposed and vulnerable. 

Common Mistakes when throwing Body Shots

In every shot in the boxing manual, throwing body shots also comes with their fair share of risk. Here are common mistakes fighters make when trying to land the perfect body shot.

1. Looking Down

It’s human nature to look directly at our objective. In boxing, looking right at your intended target is a dead giveaway even to an inexperienced opponent. Always maintain eye contact with your opponent and mix up your strikes so they can’t guess your next move.

2. Ducking

Especially for taller fighters, the temptation to lean into their opponent while delivering body shots is strong. However, this strategy can be counterproductive. The moment you approach with a ducking stance, your opponent instinctively covers their body. Stand tall and approach your opponent as you normally would. Remember, your motives should not be obvious to them.

3. Being Too Rigid

You need to be loose and relaxed to throw body shots effectively. If you are too stiff or tight, your punches will be slow and disjointed. They will hit their target but not with maximum force. You may as well just push your opponent around the ring.

4. Reaching

Also known as over-extending, reaching leaves you open to counterpunches and also makes you lose balance. Better to maintain your balance and throw several punches than over-commit to a single punch and leave yourself open to counters.

5. Dropping Hands

Focusing too much on hitting your opponent’s body can make you drop your hands, which in turn leaves your head and body vulnerable to attacks. Don’t lose sight of the forest for the trees. Keep your hands up at all times, no matter what part of your opponent’s body you want to hit.

Land the Perfect Body Shot

Body punches, without a doubt, are some of the deadliest weapons in your arsenal when it comes to boxing. Many great fighters such as Miguel Cotto, Mike Tyson, Bas Rutten, Saul Alvarez, and Bernard Hopkins were known for being masters of “body snatching.” They knew that wearing down an opponent and causing them pain would be far more effective than only knocking them down time after time. 

As a taller boxer, you might have superior height and range, but you won’t always have the advantage in a fight. The opponent might have a firm chin that can take your most potent punches or perfect head movements that keep slipping past your blows. In such a scenario, you don’t want to be stuck with just one tool in the toolbox. You’ll have to go for the body.

All fighters should be proficient in using body shots to defeat their opponents. In limiting their skillset, fighters often leave themselves vulnerable to the very thing they neglected working on. They allow you to throw a variety of punches, from jabs and hooks to straights and uppercuts, which means you can vary the angles of attack as well as areas of attack. The right body shot can end a fight decisively or leave your opponent in such great pain that they are unable to fight you in the way that they wanted. Many bouts have been won with just one liver shot.

When it comes to boxing, the range is everything. Not only does it set the tempo of the fight, but it also determines how much damage you and your opponent can inflict on each other. For a taller boxer facing a shorter fighter, the battle will always be over distance. In simple terms, your opponent cannot hit you if he can’t get into range. 

As a tall boxer, fighting on the inside requires you to be more aggressive, protect your head from striking range, swarm your opponents personal space, being light on your feet, and working on your stamina. It also requires that you fight your opponent at a very close range. This makes it less popular among tall fighters, who would be more comfortable keeping the opponent out of their coverage.

Read on for more tips on why tall boxers should fight on the inside and its advantages. 

Tips for Fighting on the Inside

Inside fighting is not as easy as it seems. Many tall boxers, particularly, struggle when the opponent gets into range. Here are a few tips to help you go toe to toe effectively in your next fight.

1. Be Aggressive

Nothing is more frustrating than trying to get close to a fighter who doesn’t want you to. Either they keep you away with stinging jabs, or they slip past your punches and run around the ring, trying to tire you out. You need to keep your guard up and remain aggressive at all times when fighting on the inside, as your opponent will be well within striking range.

Don’t let them get the drop on you. Also, don’t let them get comfortable. One good counterpunch is often all that’s needed to change the flow of a bout. 

• Punch While Advancing

As you move towards your opponent, you should throw a series of steady punches. As he blocks, you move in closer and better position yourself for the finisher. Aim for the chest, gut, and ribs as body shots are far more difficult for a fighter to slip past. Your opponent can’t hit you if his hands are busy blocking your punches. He won’t have time to get away either. 

• Box Him In

While punching your way in, try to get your opponent into the corner and keep him there. This is called “cutting off the ring.” You square your stance and plant yourself such that your opponent cannot escape from either side.

With their back against the ropes, you can keep them busy with a combination of light and heavy punches and force them into a close fight that they can’t get away from. It is a strategy that works with boxers of all fighting styles.

2. Protect Your Head

Since you will be within striking range of your opponent, so will your head. As a taller fighter, you have the natural advantage because your head is usually closer to your hands than your opponent’s fists. A shorter fighter always has to swing up so you see their blows coming and can raise your hands to protect yourself.

However, infighting brings you much closer and so places you at risk of headshots. Fighting on the inside also makes it virtually impossible to keep your hands up by your head for any length of time as your opponent will simply target your body to knock the wind out of your sails.

That means the best way to protect your head when fighting on the inside is to keep moving it constantly. Bob and weave, anticipate your opponent’s punches, and try to slip past them. Don’t let them get a fix on you just because they’re close. 

3. Swarm Your Opponent

Your opponent should have no room to punch. Fighting on the inside is all about invading his personal space, unbalancing your opponent, and disrupting their stance and plans.

Give them no time to think of a counter. They must always be on the defensive. You can achieve this by always remaining in contact with your enemy. Use your height to stay on top of him; use a combination of pushing and punching to be all around them.

Not only will he be unable to retaliate, but the constant harassment will also make them feel tired and frustrated. They will be too busy to catch a breath to throw a punch at you. Use clinches to weigh them down and prevent them from hitting you. They can’t throw body shots because your elbows are in the way. They can’t throw headshots because your forearms are blocking them off.

Keep them busy trying to disentangle, and when they break free, keep going after them. Tie up his hands or lean on him to kill his momentum when they try coming back. It’s a simple but quite effective strategy to sap your opponent’s energy and motivation.

4. Be Light on Your Feet

Fighting on the inside requires speed and agility. You will be close to your opponent, meaning you must be capable of moving fast and also changing direction quickly. Practice pivoting your body with a sparring partner so you can improve your agility and footwork.

Inside fighters tend to have quick feet because they need to step in, out, and around their opponents constantly, often changing their stances in a fraction of a second.

5. Work on Your Stamina

Although the philosophy of fighting on the inside is psychological, the execution is very much physical. You are always moving towards and around your opponent, following them around the ring while throwing endless punches and moving your head from side-to-side. All of this non-stop activity will take its toll on your stamina, especially if the bout progresses into the later rounds.

The objective of inside fighting is to wear your opponent down with a flurry of punches and constant harassment that makes them feel helpless. To do this efficiently, you must have more gas in the tank than they do to ensure you see the journey through.

Fortunately, someone can always improve stamina. Your opponents, on the other hand, can do nothing about their height. Here are some ways you can improve your stamina:

• Skipping rope
• High-Intensity Interval Training
• High Repetition Calisthenics
• Swimming
• Heavy Bag Drills

Advantages of Fighting on the Inside

As a taller fighter, fighting on the inside gives you several advantages. Here are some.

1. Unpredictability and Versatility

Because fighting on the inside is the go-to style for shorter fighters, as a tall boxer using this style, you will be both unpredictable and versatile. Taller fighters are expected to fight on the outside, where they use their superior range and height to keep their opponents at bay and avoid getting hit. If your opponent finds that you are a taller boxer who isn’t afraid to get up close and personal, they simply won’t have an answer for you.

Besides that, there is no bout where you will always be fighting on the outside. For example, you might be taller than your opponent, but they could be stronger or faster. In such a scenario, it would be useless trying to keep your distance.

Eventually, you would be forced to fight them on the inside. But inside fighting shouldn’t be an emergency option for taller boxers. Fighting on the inside can be effective when done right. The sheer proximity of you to your opponent will neutralize whatever advantages he may have in speed, strength, and even his ability to defend himself. 

2. Control the Flow of the Fight

One of the best things about inside fighting is that it gives you the ability to influence the flow of the fight. Not only do you control the distance between you and your opponent, but you also set the pace of the fight. If you are an aggressive and assertive boxer, you can press your opponent into a corner and simply hammer them into submission.

If you are the more patient and methodical type, you can use clinches as well as a combination of pushing and punching to slow them down, stall the fight, or just frustrate their efforts to get at you. Either way, the fight moves at your pace, and your opponent is always under pressure.

3. Become a More Intelligent Fighter

When fighting up close, you won’t always see your opponent’s punches coming. This forces you to rely on reading their body movements and anticipating their next move, which makes for an intelligent fighter in the long run.

The objective of boxing, after all, is to hit your opponent without getting hit. The better you are at inside fighting, the better you are as a fighter overall. You learn to read your opponents, predict their strategy, and respond accordingly, all in a matter of seconds.

Indeed, the greatest fighters of all time like Muhammad Ali, Evander Holyfield, and Floyd Mayweather were masters of inside fighting. It seemed they had an almost godlike ability to read their opponents and demolish them in the ring; with subtle sophistication, their adversaries just couldn’t match.

Get the Job Done

Fighting on the inside can be extremely beneficial even for taller boxers who are more accustomed to fighting from the outside. Inside fighting allows you to dominate the ring using your presence, frustrate your opponents, and neutralize their advantages in terms of speed, power, and height, as well as pressuring them both mentally and physically.

No matter how deadly your opponent is, you will always be comfortable with fighting them up close. Having inside fighting skills can do wonders for your fighting prowess.