As a coach, beginner to intermediate boxers ask one of three questions about their boxing stance over the years:

I will answer these questions to the best of my ability. 

Bladed or Square?

 As a coach, I have always taught my fighters to fight in a bladed stance, as it offers a slew of advantages that the square stance cannot provide. For one, the bladed stance narrows the target area, making it more challenging for opponents to land clean shots on the body.

A bladed stance also allows for greater mobility, enabling fighters to swiftly glide in and out of range and facilitates smooth transitions between offense and defense, as the fighter can easily shift their weight, slip punches, and counter with powerful strikes.

While the square stance may have been suitable for a ferocious beast like Mike Tyson, it exposes the body to a greater risk of damage and limits the fighter’s agility. The bladed stance has proven time and time again to be the superior choice for almost all boxers—after all, there will only ever be one Mike Tyson for whom I believe the square stance was destined.

Watch the video below, It is a tremendous video about why you should fight in a bladed stance from a famous Russian coach (Coach Alik) who trained as a coach with the legendary Freddy Roach (I subtitled it for my English speaking coaches and boxers).

Should I stand Square in Close Range Boxing?

The hard answer is NO. You should not stand square even in close range. Here are the quick and simple reasons why:

  • Standing slightly bladed in close range gives you balance and prevents you from getting pushed out of balance by a shoulder or elbow pull. 
  • Keeping yourself bladed in close range allows you to generate power with straight right (cross) or straight left if you’re a southpaw (lefty stance).
  • Standing bladed allows you to pivot faster as less time is required to change direction.

Can I use the Philly Shell like Floyd Mayweather Jr?

Oh, how I’ve learned the hard way! There I was, in the ring, trying to emulate the legendary Floyd Mayweather by crossing my arms and using the Philly Shell. But let me tell you, my friends, that’s not something you should attempt unless you’re an experienced boxer. I learned that lesson the moment a left hook sent me face to the ground. The Philly Shell, while an exceptional defensive technique, requires years of practice and muscle memory to execute effectively. Now, as for keeping your left down like Floyd, I’ve found that it can work for some if it feels comfortable and prevents those sneaky punches from landing. But I implore you, dear readers, don’t try to imitate the greats without putting in the time and dedication. Trust me, it’ll save you from a world of hurt!

    Here’s a video compilation of one of my favorite Philly shell boxers James Toney:

Balance and Boldness: The Art of Lowered Arms in Boxing

As a kid, I never understood how Roy Jones Jr’s coaches would allow him to fight with arms so low. I was in awe and a little sickened by his unconventional style! But after years of boxing I learned that  with arms completely lowered, these legends achieved tremendous balance in their cores, allowing for confident, fluid, and efficient head movement.

Fighting with lower hands is equivalent to a tight-rope walker, balancing gracefully with arms at their sides rather than clenched near their cheekbones. The secret of Roy Jones Jr. and Muhammad Ali lies in the unwavering confidence in their defense and the power of their core. Imagine the tight-rope walker, high above the ground, every step a dance between life and gravity. They extend their arms to the sides, creating a delicate equilibrium that keeps them upright and stable. In boxing, with lowered arms, a similar balance is achieved; the fighter’s core becomes the center of gravity, allowing for nimble footwork and fluid head movement.

This unconventional approach to defense can be a double-edged sword. While it offers freedom and balance, it demands an immense level of skill, reflexes, and self-assurance. Like a tight-rope walker, one misstep can lead to disastrous consequences. But for those who can master it, like Ali and Jones Jr., it’s a breathtaking display of athleticism and artistry.

So, if you’re a confident defensive boxer or a professional, why not channel your inner Ali or Jones Jr.? You might just find that you can float like a butterfly and sting like a bee, all while maintaining the poise and balance of a tight-rope walker! However, I must caution my dear readers: amateur boxers should steer clear of this approach, as it requires a high level of skill and self-assurance that comes with experience and expertise.

Here’s a good video breakdown of Roy Jones Jr’s famous lowered arms fighting style:

TL; DR: 

I never advise any of my boxers to stand in a square approach. It will destroy your balance. Your hand positioning, whether on your temples, in a Philly shell, or at lowered at your waist is, however, fully up to you and your defensive confidence.