What's really the difference between the two? I don't think they're the same but can someone really break them down for me? Thanks that'll be much appreciated.
Running more describes the mindset of the fighter than technique per se. Usually i'd call a fighter a runner who was just using constant movement to stay away from trouble and offering next to nothing offensively. Defensive footwork is the techniques(orthodox or unorthodox) a fighter uses when looking to avoid punches/control distance on the bcakfoot and laterally rather than while initiating.Ideally most world class fighters will be able to seamlessly blend the two. A runner is using almost nothing but defensive footwork.
I like how you stated that. I guess defensive footwork also can set up fighters in great positions to counter too.
Watch two Hopkins fights in Trinidad and Hakkar. In the Trinidad fight you see defensive footwork by Hopkins and in the Hakkar fight, you see loads of "running" by Hakkar.
I think you just about nailed it. For example basic stuff here, when I was ready to fight someone I had never seen before, and knowing their experience, I would simply look at their stance whether orthodox or southpaw. If he was an orthodox fighter, I would already have it in my mind I was going to move to my right, away from his righthand because I liked to fight at distance more than coming forward, so I was going to be away from his hook and be able to setup my own righthand easier off the jab while avoiding his, moving laterally and stepping in.
Running does not exist in the sport of boxing. You either box with techniqual footwork or you don't fight at all and run.
The other guys have summed it up pretty well but I'll add my two cents: Defensive foot work= Meldrix Taylor Running=Howard Davis jr.
I wouldn't call Howard Davis footwork "running". You want to see running?Julio Cesar Chavez vs Lonnie Smith. Defensive footwork?Willie Pastrano vs Harold Johnson.
Running is just trying to survive. In reality, there is no running in boxing unless you're jumping out of the ring and literally running away. Or... just moving away to try and survive. There has to be zero offensive effort. You can move and pot shot but this is not running. It's called boxing, and if it's in the squared circle then you should find a way to try neutralizing it.
This. Thanks for all the feedback guys! Feel free to keep posting on this thread if ya feel like it.:good