by Shane Tucker

Created on: June 22, 2009   Last Updated: July 03, 2009

The world of combat sports encompasses several different arts. There are mixed-martial arts fighters, Muay Thai kickboxers, karate fighters, and a host of other disciplines that teach varying techniques. However, boxing is the most effective style when learning punching combinations, because punches are a boxer's only weapons. What many people fail to consider is that there is another aspect of boxing that is just as important as learning how to properly throw punches. The art of defense is one of the most overlooked skills in fighting. Head movement, body movement, footwork, and blocking all play a role in keeping a participant from absorbing punishment in the ring. Defense is one of the most difficult skills to teach in boxing, and it takes hours of practice to become proficient at it. A variety of techniques can be used to defend against each punch that is in a boxer's arsenal. Let's take a look at the different ways to defend against a cross, which is a straight punch from opponent's rear hand.

First, it is important to point out that the natural instinct many people have in response to getting punched is actually a wrong way to defend against a cross. Most people have the tendency to try to retreat from the punches. In doing so, they move straight backward in an effort to get out of range. This can lead to disaster because their opponent will have the opportunity to land the blow at the end of the punch, where there is much more power generated from the velocity. Many fighters have been knocked out moving straight back from a cross. So, the first proper way to defend against a cross is to circle away from the power rear hand instead of moving straight back. This causes the opponent to attempt to punch across their body to land the strike, instead of straight ahead. It is much harder to get the correct body mechanics, which is the true source of power in any punch.

A second way to defend is to slip the punch. A slip in boxing is executed by slightly leaning to the left or right in order to avoid the punch. Take note that the lean is not a large motion. Rather, it is moving the head just a few inches in order to throw the punch off target. Notice during the next boxing match on TV when the boxers are constantly moving their heads. When a punch is delivered and a slip is executed, the punch will only miss by about an inch or two. Sometimes it will still even graze the side of the head, but do no damage.

Another way to defend a cross

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