Thursday, December 05, 2002

The Jabbing File thread started by Rastus



NOTE: I had this thread archived to my 2nd Tripod site ages ago. Tripod took down my second archives. In time, I will be adding to this blog some of the info that was up there. My thanks to someholdsbarred and waise pairasta for their help.

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From: Rastus
Date: 07-Sep-02 07:13 PM
Edited: 07-Sep-02 09:58 PM, 07-Sep-02 09:57 PM, Edited:07-Sep-02 09:3

After being scolded by a certain person for not posting more on the boxing forum...a person who I will not name, because that would be rude....(Martinburke)...I thought we could try to all contribute to a thread: A use for the Jab.

As many of you know, I am a huge proponent for the jab. I consider it the foundation off of which all boxing operates. It's the keystone, it's that important. I'll start the list of reasons to use the Jab.

  1. It's the fastest punch there is. Crosses, hooks, uppercuts all take more time to land. The distance traveled is the least, the speed is the greatest. ~ Rastus.
  2. It upsets the rhythm of your opponent. When you bang his gloves, forearms, body, forehead, face, etc... it disrupts your opponent's rhythm and train of thought. Keeps him less "together" and grouped and planning your demise. ~ Rastus
  3. It's a very versatile punch. You can throw snappy punches with it, using it as a range-finder or just as a general annoyance for your opponent. Or you can sit down on it a little bit, and hit with strength and accuracy. ~ Pound 4 Pound
  4. You have to make your opponent respect your jab right away. After you stop him in his tracks a few times with your jab, he will be looking for it. It is from this point that you can begin working everything else off your jab. If you are feather-fisted with your jab, most guys won't think twice about wading through it in order to fire their own punches at you. Make him fear your jab and then everything else falls into place. ~ 5 o' Clock Shadow 
  5. It's the easiest punch to throw, and landing your jab says "dominating the fight" to most judges. ~ martinburke
  6. It's good for blocking your opponent's vision, so you can give him something that he won't remember.:) ~ martinburke

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From: Rastus
Date: 07-Sep-02 07:49 PM

Alright, alright I'll post a second reason to get the party started:

2. It upsets the rhythm of your opponent. When you bang his gloves, forarms, body, forhead, face, etc... it disrupts your opponent's rhythm and train of thought. Keeps him less "together" and grouped and planning your demise.

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From: Ron Simpson
Date: 07-Sep-02 08:27 PM

Boxing 101 "Everything works off the jab"...

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From: PoundforPound
Date: 07-Sep-02 09:08 PM

It's a very versatile punch. You can throw snappy punches with it, using it as a range-finder or just as a general annoyance for your opponent. Or you can sit down on it a little bit, and hit with strength and accuracy. 

According to a Black Belt magazine interview, Sugar Ray Leonard would sometimes even throw it as a backfist so that he could score from odd angles.

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From: Chad Hamzeh
Date: 07-Sep-02 09:22 PM
Edited:07-Sep-02 09:23 PM

Since its your fastest and has the least distance to travel, what are your guys thoughts of leading with your power hand? (i guess that was bruce lees reasoning, hehe)

I wouldn't do it, hate the way i feel on that side, but is it worth adapting? MMA purposes.

C

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From: Rastus
Date: 07-Sep-02 09:41 PM

Chad,
Converted southpaws can be like that. I guess it's a matter of personal preference and style. For boxing purposes, it would be tough to switch to lefty for a strong jab. Hmmm...I've never really thought about leading with my power hand. Converting to southpaw would be an interesting style! Maybe it would be effective...it certainly would be unconventional!

Note about jabbing:I argued one time with Machine May about rotating the shoulders on the jab. Rotating the shoulders is more of a Ted Kid Lewis "straight left" than a jab, but for me the clincher is this - do three jabs in a row without rotating your shoulders, then with rotating your shoulders. Big difference in speed, isn't it? (I'm serious, stand up and throw the punches both ways).

Focusing too much power on the jab defeats the purpose of the jab and interferes with the real power shots.

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From: 5 o clock shadow
Date: 07-Sep-02 09:47 PM

Rastus,
You've been my boxing coach while I have been here in Korea, you know that? I have been reading your posts at stickgrappler's and they help my boxing IMMENSELY. I am glad to see you back on here posting. I am still waiting for the thread on body shots that you promised a couple years ago...

Here is the most important thing I learned about the jab from reading your posts and getting out in the ring and seeing what works for me:

You have to make your opponent respect your jab right away. After you stop him in his tracks a few times with your jab, he will be looking for it. It is from this point that you can begin working everything else off your jab. If you are feather-fisted with your jab, most guys won't think twice about wading through it in order to fire their own punches at you. Make him fear your jab and then everything else falls into place.

I never used to do this before. Since I was an inside fighter, I would just try to slip inside right away and start banging. Now I establish my jab, disrupt my opponents timing, and slipping inside is much easier because my opponent has something else to look for and be wary of.

fos

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From: martinburke
Date: 07-Sep-02 09:54 PM
Edited:07-Sep-02 09:56 PM

Damn,that didn't take long.:)

It's the easiest punch to throw,and landing your jab says "dominating the fight" to most judges.

It's good for blocking your opponent's vision,so you can give him something that he won't remember.:)

Chad-I think most people are more balanced offensively with your power hand to the rear.

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From: Rastus
Date: 07-Sep-02 09:56 PM

5 o clock shadow,
Hey, what's up, buddy? Long time no chat. I'm glad to hear the posts have been helpful! and you just posted an excellent insight too. It's going into slot 4.

(I'm updating the list in the first post for convenience to the reader).

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From: JRS3
Date: 08-Sep-02 11:58 AM

TTT

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From: lefthooker
Date: 08-Sep-02 12:12 PM

I'll post tomorrow. I've got some verrrry good stuff on the jab.

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From: LEMon
Date: 08-Sep-02 11:37 PM

Start the begginer off by jabbing with his thumb up, this ensures that he doesnt put his elbow out. Next after a week or two have him twist it at the end and u have a picture perfect jab, now just do it 100 times a day :)

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From: Jody
Date: 09-Sep-02 02:33 AM
Member Since: 01-Jan-01

I love the jab because it allows me to take advantage of my reach and I love to hook off of it. A good jab makes a boxer look like an artist or a technician, which is aesthically pleasing to people like us, who know a little bit about it. A brawler can use a jab as well, allowing himself to take small break in between flurries. I could go on, but then I would start being redundant.

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From: lefthooker
Date: 09-Sep-02 03:59 AM

LEMon makes some good advice

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From: Stickgrappler
Date: 09-Sep-02 08:02 AM

*WOW* you guys wait for me to leave work on friday before posting good info!

special thanks to martinburke for *jabbing* Rastus to contribute :-) and of course to all the others who contributed.

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From: Stickgrappler
Date: 09-Sep-02 08:49 AM

many of the regulars know about my website and Frank Benn. but for the sake of the newbies, here is some advice from Frank Benn:

BOXING TIPS FOR FIGHTING by Frank Benn

The jab

To me, the art of boxing is founded on the jab. If you've got a jab, you can box. If you don't, then boxing is hard. Simple as that. Without the jab, expect to get hit a lot. The jab helps to make you a good boxer. Without one, you're just a puncher (which can also be effective, but requires specialized attributes to pull it off).

The Can Opener, and the Spoon

There's a saying in boxing that your jab is a can opener, and your cross is a spoon. The opponent is a can of meat. You've got to use your can opener to open the can BEFORE you can use your spoon to dig out the meat. If you try to use your spoon first, you'll generally fail. Even if you like to lead off with a cross (not usually advisable, unless you're Roy Jones, Ali, or a pissed off Jack Johnson), it is advisable that you at least feint a jab to conceal the load-up of your rear shoulder for the cross.

Jab like a fencer

Jabbing is a game of controlled lunging in coordinated footwork to achieve the right range for other things. Some people use the jab in a light way, like a fly swatter. I like to use it light, but also as a heavier punch as well -- a dichotomy which comes from originally learning to box at 175 lbs., but finding myself now at a trim 215-220 lbs. with enough speed AND weight to use it both ways.

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From: Stickgrappler
Date: 09-Sep-02 08:50 AM

Boxing Tips for Fighting -- Part 2 -- With Some Street Applications, and Some Advice by Frank Benn



The Jab Revisited

Remember, the jab is your can opener. It precedes most other utensils. Look at it also as your sword. The jab must be fast, and reliable. When you've got nothing else left, you'd better at least have a jab. Insert it into every gap. Use it to probe the opponent's reactions. Imagine that you're blind -- your jab is how you feel for every contour.

Use of the jab ranges from pawing with it to load up your cross (Ali) to using it to conceal your low entry (Chris Byrd, even Royce Gracie) to a damaging tool that will make your man see stars (Larry Holmes). Hurting a man with your jab has to do with how much you bring your lead hip in line with the shot, and how much you shift your weight into it.

Most people don't put anything on their jab, and a decent boxer will not respect it -- as you throw it, he'll come right over the top of it with his cross and knock you out, or slip inside of it and catch you with his hook.

Feinting with the Jab

Before you can even use your jab as a feint, you have to make it believable. Otherwise (as already stated) your opponent will wait for that soldier to leave his post and storm that wall (previous metaphor from other post). Once you've made your jab into something credible and fearful in your opponent's eyes, you can work some other variables with it.

Bread Basket Jab

This is a great way to get the opponent to lower his lead hand and expose his chin. Or, if he won't lower that hand, you just crack away at that floating rib. I've put heavyweights on the floor with breadbasket jabs -- not hard to do if you've got a jab with some starch in it, and you time it when he's coming toward you. You've got to do it as you slip outside or sidestep -- i.e. your head moves on the same first beat that your punch did.

For more of Frank Benn’s insights, check out:

Frank Benn - Some tips and concepts related to the Jab

in which he writes a whole article on the jab.

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From: joemurphy
Date: 09-Sep-02 09:18 AM

Rastus - what do you mean by "rotating your shoulders"? Is that the same as rolling your lead shoulder to hide your chin? hmmm....can't say I'm for or against it until I understand it.

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From: Stickgrappler
Date: 09-Sep-02 09:19 AM

of course, Rastus wrote "Top 10 Reasons to Jab"

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From: LEMon
Date: 13-Sep-02 07:31 PM

ttt

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From: Rastus
Date: 22-Sep-02 01:47 PM

hey guys,
Did anyone notice on the De La Hoya/Vargas fight, how the Oscars win WAS A CONSEQUENCE OF HIS ESTABLISHING HIS JAB?

He didn't outmuscle Vargas, didn't out bomb him...he outjabbed him. Once this jab was established, it ushered in the bombs.

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NOTE: posted to the Underground's Boxing forum. Posted Dec 2008 and backdated to Dec 5, 2002 to mirror my old archives http://stickgrappler2.tripod.com/ug/rastjab2.html





Other Rastus articles posted:



De La Hoya vs Vargas: The Jab thread started by Rastus

NOTE: I had this thread archived to my 2nd Tripod site ages ago. Tripod took down my second archives. In time, I will be adding to this blog some of the info that was up there. My thanks to someholdsbarred and waise pairasta for their help.

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From: Rastus
Date: 22-Sep-02 01:51 PM
Edited:22-Sep-02 01:57 PM, Edited:22-Sep-02 01:53 PM

Did anyone notice on the De La Hoya/Vargas fight, how Oscars win WAS A CONSEQUENCE OF HIS ESTABLISHING HIS JAB?

He didn't outmuscle Vargas, didn't out bomb him...he outjabbed him. Once this jab was established, it ushered in the bombs.

This fight is a great study for people who don't believe the critical importance of the jab in boxing, or who accept the point without implementing the punch.

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From: KS
Date: 22-Sep-02 07:36 PM

Rastus I agree, but isn't Dela hoya's jab stronger than most--after all he is a natural southpaw, so his jab and hook are his most powerful weapons.

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From: dolemite_112
Date: 22-Sep-02 09:40 PM
Edited:22-Sep-02 09:40 PM

Rastus! I've been usin the jab more in my mma situations to bring the guy in, then havin my way, lovin it.

Chad

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From: Rastus
Date: 22-Sep-02 11:23 PM

KS,

His jabs are strong, no doubt...but one can also develop a devistating jab without being a converted southpaw. Yes, they are probably more powerful than most. I'm telling you guys, establishing a jab is a devistating advantage.

dolemite_112,

EXCELLENT!!! So that strategy's working? F*ck, I always thought it would!

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From: ron den otter
Date: 23-Sep-02 12:35 PM


Rastus, before the fight, a lot of people singled out DLH's superior jab as one of the best reasons why DLH would beat Vargas.

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From: Rastus
Date: 23-Sep-02 02:28 PM

interesting, ron. I would have agreed with them.

I want you all to imagine something (and for those who've experienced it, you'll know what I mean) - you're boxing an opponent who keeps pop...POP POP!...popping you with a jab...keeping you at the end of his punches, forcing you to throw heavy punches from the outside, which he always seems to duck under or evade...you're nose is bleeding, you're head is hurting, you're frustrated, then you start getting caught with big punches AFTER being blinded and disoriented in that flash.

It's disheartening and debilitating, and it's something Vargas experienced first hand with De La Hoya.

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From: JRS3
Date: 23-Sep-02 03:35 PM

Rastus, what did you think of Oscar's shoulder roll?

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From: Rastus
Date: 23-Sep-02 07:21 PM

He seems to be comfortable using it, and it's been effective for him. What I don't like about it is that it can put one out of position to attack.

If it's working for him though, as it appears to be, and he can integrate an offense with it, as well as the capacity to just make an opponent miss, more power to him.

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From: billy jee
Date: 24-Sep-02 11:00 PM

the jab saved lennox from the potentials of a massacre. Hoya is a skilled technician, shoulder rolling, feints, slick jabs on 1/2 beat etc,hi lo hi combos, beautiful artistry. DLH's new style is called the peek a boo lead hand low other hand by face, chin and shoulder. He’s definatly getting used to it. he seemed to get walloped a considerable amount in the vargas fight. I think he is most deadly on his toes, footwork and a determining factor of an altercation of two equally skilled opponents is BROKEN Rhythym.. DLH is nice with the hands.

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From: Rastus
Date: 25-Sep-02 12:54 AM

good observations, billy jee. I agree.

Some people say, "why jab to the body? Doesn't hurt him..."

It does. Makes him feel vulnerable and take him a little bit out of his game.

Jabbing to the body is a good way into a man's head.

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From: JRS3
Date: 25-Sep-02 09:19 AM

Cool thread. TTT.

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From: GT99
Date: 25-Sep-02 09:48 AM

Its true, the jab is the most important punch in Boxing....always has been and always will be, Alot of todays fighters have neglected the jab, but I can see the trend coming back, the jab is the one punch that can dominate a fight.....DLH has proved what the jab can do....look at Forrest using the jab to dominate Mosley.

I fight as a heavyweight and I am one of the shorter guys at 5'9, but even against a tall opponent, I still use the jab alot.....maybe not as much, but it is the punch that gets things going....whether it is to set up another punch or if it is used to get in close

As far as shoulder rolls go.....I think Oscar is naturally good and can use anything he learns, however I believe he is much better at just boxing like he used to, the Mayweather defence is great and very effective but I think you need to learn it from the beginning, Oscar gets hit more now....sure some shots are not really landing but alot are and the ones that dont land are still annoying you....they scrape alot of the times and your shoulders will look like they took a beating.

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From: ron den otter
Date: 25-Sep-02 11:02 AM

Oddly enough, during the first round, Tyson was able to land a number of jabs against Lewis. It was downhill from there, however,...

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From: Rastus
Date: 25-Sep-02 01:31 PM

GT99,

Its true, the jab is the most important punch in Boxing

That simply can't be stated enough times. I state this in so many of my threads, I make a broken record sound unpredictable.

look at Forrest using the jab to dominate Mosley.

Absolutely! IMO the prime reason Mosely lost is that he was dominated by Forrest's jab. Mosely would leap into these attacks, which Forest was well trained to counter.

maybe not as much, but it is the punch that gets things going....whether it is to set up another punch or if it is used to get in close

It's the facilitator...the oil in the engine. When the jab's working, everything else seems to be so much more smooth and easy.

The one thing I like about Oscar's shoulder roll is mental - it allows him, apparently, to enjoy boxing more. The benefits of that enjoyment may be sharper timing, more dedication and longevity. He does seem to get hit more and I think, though a shoulder roll can block a punch, or cause it to glance off, it leaves one slightly out of position.




NOTE: posted to the Underground's Boxing forum. Posted Dec 8, 2008 and backdated to Dec 5, 2002 to mirror my old archives http://stickgrappler2.tripod.com/ug/rastjab3.html.




Other Rastus articles posted:



Terminology and Stance thread started by lefthooker


NOTE: I had this thread archived to my 2nd Tripod site ages ago. Tripod took down my second archives. In time, I will be adding to this blog some of the info that was up there. My thanks to someholdsbarred and waise pairasta for their help.

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From: lefthooker
Date: 18-Nov-02 10:41 AM

Terminology and Stance

Terms of Direction, Forward, Backward, Outside and Inside.

In teaching my system of boxing the direction of the different punches and moves are very important. Forward and backward are self explanatory. I do not use the terms left or right as it relates to direction. It is easier to use the terms OUTSIDE and INSIDE to determine and refer to lateral direction. These moves can be employed by either the right-handed or the left handed boxer.

Lateral movement is started from the center of the body. For the right handed boxer movement to his left (toward his jab) is referred to as movement to the OUTSIDE. Movement that starts to his right (toward his power hand) is referred to as movement to the INSIDE. For the left handed fighter the terms remain the same. Any move that starts towards his jab hand is to the OUTSIDE and any move towards his power hand is going to his INSIDE.

Proper On Guard (Stance) position. The proper stance is very critical. All offense, defense and movement must come from a balanced and relaxed stance. There are many different stances depending on the preference of the of the trainer and the boxer. Some stances are very square with almost the entire body with the shoulders and hips in a straight line and both feet in a straight line. Others are slanted at an angle with the rear shoulder almost hidden. Some boxers have a severe parallel stance showing very little of their body with their feet at a right angle to their head.

The directions for the stance that I use in my system will be described for the right handed boxer. For the left handed boxer the stance is the same just reverse the directions.

  1. Place your left foot directly in front of your left shoulder.
  2. Place your right foot under your right shoulder, step back with your right foot about 18 inches and turn your right foot to approximately a 45 degree angle. There should be a slight angle with the back shoulder directly over the right foot.
  3. You should be in a comfortable stance, bend both knees slightly and sit slightly, dropping down an inch or two. Raise your right heal so that you are resting on your entire left foot and the front half of your right foot. You should feel a bit "springy" and loose, not at all tight.
  4. Tuck your chin into the center of your chest so that you can see forward with the tops your eyes. All you need is a very narrow focus. You should focus your gaze on your opponents shoulders, you want to see any hint of movement.
  5. With your elbows close to your body, turn your hands and palms forward with the fingers open, do not make a fist. Keeping your hands in a tight fist will only tire your hands and arms and make them react slowly.
  6. The left hand should be over the left foot.
  7. The right hand should be just in front of right ear. There should be about a 6 inch open area between your hands.

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From: lefthooker
Date: 18-Nov-02 10:42 AM

Because of the different physical and individual characteristics of each person the stance can be modified to fit the boxer. The spread between the legs can be adjusted but you should have good balance, the rear leg should too far or close together. A good way to check your stance is to see if you can sit down and make a "U" by moving up and down from one leg to the other and back again. If you can your stance should be corre

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From: Stickgrappler
Date: 18-Nov-02 11:15 AM

this is from your booklet or your coach's booklet, right? i vaguely recall you mentioning this.

cool!

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From: lefthooker
Date: 18-Nov-02 11:16 AM

Yes this is from the boxing manual that we created. Once we meet up we're going to make a video as well.

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From: martinburke
Date: 18-Nov-02 04:05 PM

MORE,DAMMIT!!!!:)

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From: Nikto
Date: 19-Nov-02 05:13 AM

Lefthooker, are you a trainer?

Any info on the left hook? :)

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From: lefthooker
Date: 19-Nov-02 06:09 AM


No I am just an aspiring boxer. I'll post something on the left hook later.
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From: wanderer
Date: 19-Nov-02 10:24 AM

Awesome post. Threads like these are so much more interesting than "Roy Jones sucks ass" or "So-and so is the best". This kind of thread is why I keep coming back to this forum.

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From: JoeyCrawford
Date: 19-Nov-02 11:14 PM

Well, I was going to make a whole new thread but you sound like a good guy to ask about this: I'm about 6'3" or 6'4" and anywhere from 175-185, so I'm taller but less powerful than most guys I fight. So should I still only squat slightly to take advantage of my height or should I "sit down" in my stance more to even out the power part? Here's a quote to take into consideration:

"An advantage is only an advantage if you take advantage of it."
- Dikembe Mutombo

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From: TOMMYDAPIT
Date: 20-Nov-02 12:06 AM

thats a good question crawford, me id use my size and reach, did you see the morales/barrera 2, if you did you see how morales is trying to stand tall and use his reach, i dont like the stand straight up style,id stand tall and use my size and reach like lennox does also

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From: lefthooker
Date: 20-Nov-02 07:36 AM

I'd stand tall, but still have a little bend in your knees of course.

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From: wanderer
Date: 20-Nov-02 09:14 AM


What if it's the opposite? Me, I'm about 5'8" and around 156-158 lbs. I'm actually shorter than most guys in that weight class. Many guys are going to have height and reach on me. Should I do the opposite thing that Joey should do, and get even lower into a crouch?

I remember someone saying"If you have a tall guy, make him fight tall, and if you have a short guy, make him shorter." Something like that.

Thanks.

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From: lefthooker
Date: 20-Nov-02 11:43 AM


you don't have to be in a crouch, no need to make yourself smaller than yoiu alrerady are, just fine the right level of stance for yourself and work from there.

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From: martinburke
Date: 20-Nov-02 01:27 PM

I'm with them,Joey.Fight tall.Make the other guy reach for you-that'll make your punches that much more effective.

"Sitting down" all the time ends up being more like "setting your feet";you'll end up trading more.

Why give up your strength to play into theirs?

The only time you may need to make yourself smaller is if you find yourself moving straight back.Close yourself up for that split second(at least you hope)before you come to your senses and circle out of there..
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From: jcruz
Date: 20-Nov-02 02:05 PM

good stuff, indeed, lefthooker. sounds alot like my instructor and what i get in class. reading this post and the reactions certainly re-enforces the fact that i'm getting excellent training.

thanks again.

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From: tacticalfighter
Date: 21-Nov-02 12:42 PM
Edited:21-Nov-02 01:07 PM

Crawford,

I am 6'2 and 195-200 (up from 185-190 last year), I too share the same concern, some of my sparring partners are stronger 215, or 230 lbs. Luckily, since I am leaner, and happen to be faster and lighter on my feet. Develope your punching speed by relaxing, working lots of reps on the bags, shadowboxing combinations fast and light. Get back to basics, work one round just jabbing, one crossing, etc. Speed and endurance work well for me. And don't get me wrong the guys say I am a hard hitter( anyone using good mechanics and weighing over 150lbs can hit hard-if you weigh 185 to 200 thats harder yet) But developing the good attributes you have now will be easier than developing new attributes. Same goes with skill acquisition-polishing what you have is faster than learning new skills. (Though you should also work on your weaknesses too, but you may find encouragement from some nice quick improvements!)

And work on your foot work by jump roping. I don't know how much you rope, but I try to do 3-5 rounds each training day as my warm up. I skip stationary for 1 round, then I skip forward and backwards, and hop side to side with both feet for a couple rounds. Single leg skipping adds variety too, but wears you out quicker. Also spend a few rounds just working foot work. Step and slide, slide and step, shuffle, pivot circling one way then the other. On Sunday, one of my conditioning days, I will work 3-5 rounds of foot work with a rubber strength bands looped to the wall with a heavy duty eye bolt and to my weight belt by the handles. I then work foot work drills a round with resistance facing forward away from the wall, the next round facing the wall. Damn good workout!

Ray

www.absolutejkd.com


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NOTE: posted to the Underground's Boxing forum..




Originally posted to this site on Dec 22, 2008 - edited today Nov 27, 2013 to mirror my old site's posting of Dec 5, 2002. Copied from http://stickgrappler2.tripod.com/ug/lhstance.html.

The Definitive Jab thread started by lefthooker

NOTE: I had this thread archived to my 2nd Tripod site ages ago. Tripod took down my second archives. In time, I will be adding to this blog some of the info that was up there. My thanks to someholdsbarred and waise pairasta for their help.

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From: lefthooker
Date: 18-Nov-02 10:37 AM

Introduction to the Jab

The JAB is the most used punch in boxing, this is because the Left JAB (for right handed) people is the punch that is closest to your opponent. Normally thrown with the elbow straight, the punch is the quickest and safest punch that can be thrown. It will set up any other punches that will be thrown in combinations. It can be used either in offense or defense. By adjusting your footwork as you throw the JAB you can to move to different directions in the ring. The punch can be thrown at different speeds, from different angles and you can adjust the about of power behind the punch. The JAB can be a light flicking punch that probes for openings or can be a hard jolt that can almost be a knockout punch on it's own. Some noted boxers that have relied on the use the JAB are Oscar De La Hoya who employed a hard stiff JAB, Floyd Mayweather Jr. who uses a FLICKING JAB to set up his power punch and Larry Holmes who used an UP JAB to raise the chin of his opponent for his power punch. Each JAB was thrown differently but the all had the same result, to set up other punches and help build successful careers.

OFFENSIVE JABS- Offensive Jabs begin when the front foot moves first into a different position, usually a change of angle will result. On the completion of the JAB an attack will commence.

DEFENSIVE JABS- Defensive Jabs begin when the back foot moves first into a different position, usually a change of angle will result. On completion of the JAB you can attack or you can gain further distance.

The Jab – Part 1: The Offensive Jabs

The following will describe the 5 offensive jabs. For a right handed person they will be jabs thrown with the left hand.

The BASIC JAB When the BASIC JAB (I refer to it as the JAB when training) is thrown your relative position does not change. The mechanics of the punch are thus. While standing in your normal stance,

1. Step forward with your left foot about 1 foot pushing off of your right instep.

2. Thrust your left hand straight out at the same time.

3. Turn your right palm to your left to cover your face.

With practice these 3 movements will be done at the exact same time. When the punch is completed, the left hand, left foot and right palm will go back into the position of the original stance. In effect you are throwing a left jab and right block. The right hand will catch any straight punch coming back at you. If you keep the correct distance from your opponent he will be unable to counter you with any other punch other then a jab or possibly a straight right hand. It is possible to place your right hand by your right ear when you jab if your opponent insists on trying to counter you with a left hook. You can even place your right palm by your left ear to counter right hand counters. I suggest you place it in front of your face as it is the most likely target when trying to counter you jab.

The FORWARD JAB: The FORWARD JAB will allow you to gain distance on your opponent. This will allow you to get closer to him while still punching. This will set up quick combinations of hooks and uppercuts. This is especially important when boxing someone who is taller and has a longer reach then you. The only difference between the mechanics of the BASIC JAB and the FORWARD JAB is that upon throwing the punch and stepping with the left foot you do not retract the left foot but bring the right foot forward so that you are in your original stance. This movement will bring you forward, ready for a quick attack upon your opponent.

The BACKWARD JAB: The BACKWARD JAB will allow you to increase the distance between you and your opponent. This will allow you to be at a distance where you cannot be countered directly. This will make your opponent come forward to you if he desires to attack. From then on you can set up pivots and counters to stop his attack. The only difference between the BASIC JAB and the BACKWARD JAB is that upon throwing the punch you dip down slightly and then step back with your right foot about 8 inches. You then bring your left foot back into your original stance. This movement can be very effective as you can punch and see what type of defense your opponent uses against your jab. It is possible to move your right foot to your inside (right) or to your outside (left) this will change your angle. It is good to vary this move, it will make it difficult for your opponent to know which direction you intend to go.

The OUTSIDE JAB: The OUTSIDE JAB will allow you to step diagonally to your left as you jab. This will bring you to an angle so that an attack can be made while your opponent should be on his heels and off balance. The only difference between the BASIC JAB and the OUTSIDE JAB is that instead of stepping directly forward with your left foot, you step forward and to your outside (left) you then pivot on the ball of your left foot and bring your right foot into your original stance. The distance you step and the speed of the pivot will allow you to make the move wider or narrower depending on where you want to end up.

The INSIDE JAB The INSIDE JAB will allow you to step diagonally to your right as you jab. This will bring you to a angle so that an attack can be made to the back of your opponent (if his is right handed). This angle cannot be countered and is very effective. The only difference between the BASIC JAB and the INSIDE JAB is that after you have thrown the punch (while stepping forward) step to your inside (right) with your right foot then pivot slightly to your inside on the ball of your left foot. This will change your angle so that a straight right hand should land cleanly.

HAND POSITIONING The left hand normally is held high, the thumb held about the height of the nose. You can also throw any of the OFFENSIVE JABS from a low position with the hand held just above the waist. This will make the jab come from a different angle and make it harder to block. Any of the above jabs can be thrown in this manner. It is a bit more dangerous and it is imperative that you bring the jab hand back to a HIGH position after you jab so that you can defend against a jab or right hand counter. There are times you can bring the left hand back to the low position it you desire to counter your opponents counter. I will explain this later in the tactics section of this manual.

FLICK JAB The FLICK JAB is a jab that is thrown with the left hand held high (the elbow is at a level of the shoulder with the glove held near your chest), the left hand is thrust out so that the knuckles just touch your opponents face. The hand flicks out and in quickly in a flicking motion. This punch is not powerful but will confuse your opponent as it makes it very hard for him to set himself up to punch back. The flicking jab is used to set up a right hand. This is especially true for boxers that like to use a lot of movement.

The disadvantage of the FLICK JAB is that there is little power to it and it is almost impossible to throw the left hook or the left uppercut after the FLICK JAB is thrown. And because of the angle of the elbow the left hand can not be used for parries. However, it is a good punch to have in your arsenal, used once in a while it will give your opponent something else to think about during a fight.

The Jab – Part 2: The Defensive Jab

The DEFENSIVE JAB is used to keep an on rushing opponent at a distance and allow you to quickly change angles for a counter attack.

The mechanics of the DEFENSIVE JAB are:

1. Throw out the left hand as in the offensive jab.

2. Turn your right thumb so that the right glove is in front of your face.

3. Step back with the right foot about 1 foot while leaving the left foot in place.

4. Bring back the left foot so that you are in your original stance. These 3 steps are done very quickly and almost instantly. With practice it will all flow seemlessly into one move and you will be able to place yourself at a distance from your opponent.

Inside and Outside Defensive Jabs: It is possible to change angles when using the DEFENSIVE JAB. Instead of stepping directly back with the right foot you can step to either the INSIDE or OUTSIDE to change your angle to either direction. This will allow you to set up a right hand and be in excellent defensive position. Practice the DEFENSIVE JAB moving to different angles and setting up the counter. This is a very important tactic and should be a part of every boxers inventory of punches.

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From: Stickgrappler
Date: 18-Nov-02 11:15 AM

cool!!

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From: Bull_in_chinashop
Date: 18-Nov-02 11:42 AM

Excellent! ttt

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From: 5 o clock shadow
Date: 20-Nov-02 11:30 PM

Lefthooker,

Can the flick jab be kinda like a backhand (backfist)? I saw James Toney use this one a lot from his lead-hand-down, look-over-the-shoulder stance. It almost looked like a backhand.

Also, this is a GREAT thread. The jab is the most important punch in boxing. I also seem to pick up little details from these threads on the basics.

Thanks!

fos



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From: koralwarrior
Date: 21-Nov-02 12:11 AM

lesson in jabs = Marco Antonio Barrera

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From: wanderer
Date: 21-Nov-02 08:39 AM

ttt

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From: 5 o clock shadow
Date: 21-Nov-02 09:03 AM

LEmon,

Care to add your two cents about the "jabber-cut?"

fos

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From: tacticalfighter
Date: 21-Nov-02 11:58 AM

Good posts!

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From: martinburke
Date: 21-Nov-02 02:48 PM

fos-That flick jab is just a quarter-turn of the wrist away from being a backhand.And even a flick jab can be "illegal" if you don't close your fist.

That being said,in a pro fight,it'll depend on the ref,and your reputation,as to whether it gets enforced or not.

I remember talking to an old photographer back toward the end of Ali's career.He mentioned that Sports Illustrated and other mags wouldn't buy many of his Ali pics because they would capture him turning his thumb forward during his open-gloved flick jab.

It wasn't a side of Ali that SI readers wanted to see,I guess.

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From: wanderer
Date: 21-Nov-02 04:42 PM
Edited:21-Nov-02 05:06 PM

martinburke is that true?? Holy shit that blows my mind. Not that I thought Ali would never be dirty, but...he is such an icon that I just wouldn't associate him with doing that.

I guess it's kind of like Marciano hitting Walcott with his forearm..the great ones were great, but they all took a shortcut now and again...:)

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From: LEMon
Date: 22-Nov-02 02:15 AM

The jabbercut is basically a jab with your palm turned up. It travels from your face, in a downward then upward arc about 4 inches, designed to lift the chin. U must be very careful of his right hand doing this, its nice if u combine it with a left hook or and overhand right after. I have caught alot of guys with it but u gotta be prepared for what happens after, either have a combo ready to flow into or dont do it because u will get nailed if u dont move quick or hit with a combo. Judah used it well against Kostya, he slipped left and right and as he slipped left again he had it loaded and leaped into it. Naseem uses the same thing as well. As i said u can get nailed if u do it to much and they expect it.



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From: 5 o clock shadow
Date: 22-Nov-02 03:14 AM

LEMon,

I tend to use the jabber-cut when I tilt backwards from a blow. Without resetting, I'll fire the lead hand out and up-wards. Bruce Lee has a picture of this in the Dao of Jeet Kune Do labeled as "the elusive lead." I also like to use the jabber-cut from a slip to the left. As I am coming up, I fire the jab outwards. Due to the angle of my stance, it is most comfortable for me to hold my fist facing up.

martinburke,

I heard that Ali had a certain technique, a flick that he would use on the end of his flicking jabs to cut people. Some people said he picked it up from a Karate guy. I remember Mills Lane talking about it once on a documentary. He said that Ali would cut people up like he had a razor.

fos

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From: martinburke
Date: 22-Nov-02 02:28 PM
Edited:22-Nov-02 04:00 PM

wanderer-I don't know if it was 100% true;he may have been stretching the truth a bit as far as the frequency.But I've seen a few photos of him doing that very thing.

As far as being a dirty fighter,well,it's human nature.It's not like we're throwing kisses to begin with.A punch to the head with murderous intent differs from a thumb to the eye only in degree.

fos:I think most people would find a palm-up jab more comfortable in that instance(after slipping to the left-especially from the peekaboo).don't know why it's not taught more.

About that Ali technique-you can't do it so much with the gloves today,but back then you could flick the tip of an open glove and it would pop like a whip,especially after it had gotten wet.

He wasn't the only one to do it.There was guy called Orlando Zulueta(sp?)who couldn't break an egg,but he'd slice people open like that,too.

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From: Sobolewski
Date: 22-Nov-02 03:14 PM

lefthooker: Are you writing a book? If so, I'll be one of the first ones in line to buy a copy! Great stuff!

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From: lefthooker
Date: 22-Nov-02 06:18 PM

Me and a friend of mine who trains fighters at Gleasons wrote a boxing manual. We have the first copy completed.

This is just an excerpt from our manual.

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From: Sobolewski
Date: 23-Nov-02 03:21 AM

Let us all know when it's available! Seriously!

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From: Bramacharya
Date: 24-Nov-02 11:49 AM


ttt

This is the kind of information I’ve been looking for, would definitely be interested in obtaining a copy of your manual.


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NOTE: posted to the Underground's Boxing forum.




Originally posted to this site on Dec 22, 2008 - edited today Nov 27, 2013 to mirror my old site's posting of Dec 5, 2002. Copied from http://stickgrappler2.tripod.com/ug/lhjab.html.

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