Why is the jab so under utilized in MMA? The jab is the most important punch in boxing. When MMA fighters claim to study boxing, are they trying to learn boxing's clinch? Last night's fight with Kimbo and Alexander was a clear case in which the jab was not used enough. Alexander was near wobbled by half the jabs Slice attempted, which was maybe 4. The reason that I mention this if because Kimbo's corner told him to widen his shots when he asked for advise on how to deal with Houston's actions after the first round. They should have told him to jab Alexander in the face, repeatedly. So much could have been set up off his jab. I was equally bothered by Silva not jabbing against Werdum recently. The opening was there. All Silva had to do was punch Werdum in the face. Why is this punch so neglected?
MMA still has a brawlers attitude. UFC largely promote this because they want exciting fights. I think a new dawn is coming with GSP, Machida, Silva etc These guys aren't only athletic but they will fight smart. Like in boxing they will will score while looking for the devastating finish. If it comes, it comes. If it doesn't, they win comfortably on the card. The jab is becoming utilized as guys want to score more. In boxing, you work the body more but guys are beginning to take leg kicking real seriously. Kicking those legs have the same slowing down effect as working the body in boxing. In MMA it is difficult to put in the necessary body attack to slow a guy down. Go to the legs is incredibly effective and achievable. I think this is all part of a new scientifc approach where guys won't try to be brutal but more scientific. The striking is becoming advanced. The grappling is seeing great transitions while moving into key positions. Even if they don't finish or sub you, they are controlling which is scoring nicely. The GNP or wham, bam, slam thank you mam style of Hughes and Tito is perhaps lessening. This is a general assessment of course. Ultimately, I think the jab is a key weapon and will be used more as MMA is employed more scientifically rather than brutally. Schaub got ko'd while throwing the jab, all Bisping said to his guys on TUF was hands up and jab, 4 out of the 5 ufc champs use the jab relatively well. MMA is still evolving but I'm sure something like the jab will eventually become mandatory to all teaching.
