How to Box a Brawler

Speed and technique often beats power and brute force when it is applied correctly. A brawler usually utilizes an unorthodox style and hard punching power to lure an opponent into a slugfest where the brawler wins by trading punch-for-punch. Brawlers are dangerous, but they are fairly limited in their capabilities. A skilled boxer will outlast and outpoint a brawler most of the time when he stays disciplined and uses proper tactics.

Instructions

    • 1

      Work your jab. The jab helps keep the brawler away from you while also disrupting his rhythm. The brawler's likely response to the jab will be an overhand right or left but if you avoid that, the jab sets up your bigger punches.

    • 2

      Move around the ring. Brawlers typically don't have good footwork and they have to plant their feet to generate punching power. Constant movement helps prevent the brawler from getting to you, tires him out and takes away his frequent power advantage.

    • 3

      Protect your body. Brawlers are often fierce body punchers and those blows will take away your energy and ability to breathe. This is especially true if the brawler is shorter than you. Keep your defense tight to prevent the brawler from working the ribs, liver and solar plexus.

    • 4

      Throw punches in combinations. Brawlers normally only throw one or two punches at a time and it's vital for you to punch before they do in an exchange. Punch first and use flurries to damage, tire and confuse the brawler, especially if you have a hand-speed advantage.

    • 5

      Tie up the brawler with your arms if he starts swarming on you or landing punches. This protects you and the referee will separate you, which allows you to move away again and resume boxing.