Some boxers almost look like fortune tellers, they avoid so many punches. So how do boxers learn to slip punches?
Training
Although some fighters have natural ability 99% of what you see in the ring is from thousands of hours in the gym. There isn’t a shortcut.
These are some of the training methods fighters go through in order to improve/learn the ability to slip (avoid) punches.
The slip rope method
This is a easy technique you can even do at home using a washing line. Essentially you need a rope/string tied to enable to you practice coming forward and going backward avoiding punches. Moving, slipping and practising combinations.
Using the slip rope/line this will help you develop muscle memory. Do it enough and you wont even think about it. One thing to remember is a boxing glove is only around 6 inches wide. You should aim to move the minimum amount possible to use as little energy and still be able to fire back.
The slip bag
Famously Cus D’Amato drilled this into a young Mike Tyson. Tyson was known his power but he also had fantastic evasive footwork, head movement, slips and rolls all thanks to these kinds of drills.
Sparring
What better way of avoiding punches than have people swing for you? Sparring is as close to fighting you will get usually with less consequences. This is all the more reason to practice and work on things you need to improve on. There is no second chances in the street or boxing ring so it’s better be over-prepared than under.
The best at not getting hit
Its the sweet science, hit and not be hit. Some are masters at this – Although it is not always entertaining, here is some examples of brilliant defensive fighters.
1) Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker
A defensive wizard. In almost all discussions on boxing’s greatest defensive fighters, Pernell Whitaker’s name often comes first on the list.
“Sweet Pea” was gifted with an almost sixth sense. He could see punches coming from a mile away and adjust ever so slightly to evade them.
2) Floyd “Money” Mayweather Jr.
Recognised as arguably the best defensive boxer of all time, Floyd “Money” Mayweather Jr. Not only is he almost impossible to hit, but he is lightning fast and deadly accurate. As he developed hand injuries he leaned more on his defensive abilities and landed with explosive counters.
3) James “Lights Out” Toney
Hall of fame trainer Freddie Roach once said that James Toney is the most naturally gifted boxer in history. He was a defensive master.
During his prime, Toney was known for not putting in the time or effort into training. He would often show up to camp overweight too.
Luckily his natural ability was more than enough to win his bouts.
4) Guillermo “El Chacal” Rigondeaux
Known as the greatest amateur boxer of all time (165 wins 5 loss)
Rigondeaux has Cuban textbook boxing and makes even the greats look bad. His footwork and head movement are astounding.
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