We all need heroes. Heroes are, in essence, those we wish to emulate. Boxers need heroes too and, fortunately, the sport abounds with athletes worthy of hero status. The purpose of this article is to point out several fighters who, in whole or in part, are worth taking the time to watch and emulate. First up, Floyd Mayweather Jr.
Boxing writers love to hate Mayweather, while boxers almost universally admire his talent. He is accused of being a defense-first dullard by some, but that’s precisely why he should be studied. What some perceive as boring is really economy. Where most fighters are happy to have two punches blocked if they will create a shot that lands, Mayweather often lands the first shot, making two missed punches unnecessary. The resulting low punch output is often seen as hyper- defensiveness, when what it is, is smart.
Remember being told when you were growing up about the older fellow who works smart and not hard? Why shouldn’t the same praise be placed on a boxer who does the same thing?
Pay close attention to Mayweather’s right hand. from his guard, it will block incoming jabs (per usual) right hands and left hooks, all without his glove moving more than six inches. This impressive defense means that he is always in a position to fire a counter shot. Which brings the reader to the main point–Mayweather’s defense compliments his offense. He is always balanced, thinking ahead of his opponent instead of just reacting to him, and executing a definite plan, which couldn’t be done by flailing away at his opponents. Though that might seem more exciting to the layperson, or the occasional writer, it isn’t effective boxing.
Watch the video and learn.
