What are the benefits to throwing jabs/crosses to the opponents chest area rather then stomach or head? A good example was ward vs Dawson. Ward kept landing the cross to the chest hook to the head. Anyone else have any fights like this and why?
I understand that but what I was really trying to get to is what's the difference between and jab to the chest or jab to the body, vice versa with the cross? The only thing I can think of is specific strategy against a taller guy maybe. Anyone have anything else?
I've not really heard that before perhaps it's less risky because your not having to reach like you do with a body shot. Perhaps also punching at the chest can bring people hands down. It's too high to block with your elbows. Interesting concept will think on this one.
If you are a tall get and want to really keep a guy off you with your jab, get low (by widening your stance) and jab his chest. He can't slip around it and he can't reach you. Watch the Bob Foster vs Dick Tiger fight. If you are shorter you can do it to get a guy to throw his right hand at you, so you can counter it. Shade to your right (assuming two orthodox fighters), keep your weight back, and jab his body. He'll see the opening and throw the punch; he'll have to punch across himself because you are pulling to your right side. This opens up the counter. Also, with the current infatuation with being square up and high guards, there is often a lane right down the middle for a stiff jab to the solar plexus. And the straight right counter to the same spot is a classic.
