Building an Effective Counter-Puncher (diary entry)

04.01.2023 Tonight we explored further developing the cross-arm guard whilst bringing in the Cuban footwork influences. The warm-up exercises were Cuban-based and we looked at how attacks and counter attacks might used off contralateral and ipsilateral movements. The cross-arm guard is largely a mid to close range guard. At mid-range it serves the counter-puncher well. Jabs can be initiated but they usually take the form of the up-jab due to the positioning of the lead arm (underneath). The exception to this rule comes with the reverse cross-arm guard (lead hand on top) where Gene Fullmer would throw a type of overhand jab. Rear hand straights are a more obvious weapon, what with the rear arm being on top, but even they can be enhanced coming off a shoulder roll. Hooks and uppercuts are best thrown coming off slips and rolls, which we practised a lot, paying a lot of attention to the rear foot pivoting positions. The Cuban vertical fist uppercut, shovel hooks and upward angled hooks are some of the best suited punches for the cross-arm guard. At long range, we are currently looking at the general low guard. There is little point into being at edge of range or long range with a cross-arm guard, although it does happen. A low guard allows the lead arm to rest more and work a very fluid jab. The fighter can quickly switch from this position to the cross-arm guard as the range shortens. A close range the cross-arm guard is both effective as a closing down tactic and a defensive shell. In the former, the forearm is used to post and control, providing the boxer with opportunities for body shots. After our technical work, we sparred for 6 x 3 minute rounds: Round 1 - Jabs versus everything - The jabber can work their low guard and outside footwork whilst the other fighter can use their cross-arm counters Round 2 - Ditto with roles reversed. Round 3 - Defence only versus attacks. This round provides an opportunity to work on the Cuban defensive Round 4 - Ditto with roles reversed. Round 5 - Freestyle Round 6 - Ditto https://clubbchimera.com/services/