The Clinch, How Does It Work and Who Does It Best?

Jack Johnson. Absolute master of the clinch and smother tactics.

 

His size also helped with his knowledge.

 

He did it with fighters as big and bigger than himself too, both before he was champion and while he was champion.

 

It was and I'm happy as fook that Chris won. Had he come in at 165 lbs at first weigh in and took the fine, I think he has his legs about him and doesn't look anywhere near as lethargic. His jab was slow, his reflexes looked slower but he demonstrated some willpower. A non-weight drained Chris catches him with one of the counter right uppercuts. Tonight, if Benn listened to his corner, took a step back and set up his shots better, he could've killed Chris' legs completely and possibly asked the ref to make a decision.

That said, Benn showed spirit and made Chris work and I feared that Benn might stop him.

If they do a rematch, I hope that Chris gets to come in at a more natural fighting weight for himself. He won the fight but looked worse for wear.