In our latest Phenom blog, from Muhammad Ali to Sugar Ray Leonard, we explore some of the big American names that have achieved true greatness in the ring.
The original GOAT - the true Greatest of All Time. We almost don’t need to explain why he’s included in this list - even to those who know nothing about boxing, Muhammad Ali is one of the most iconic sporting heroes in history.
Born Cassius Clay in 1942, Ali was a prodigy in the ring who became the world heavyweight champion at the tender age of 22. A force to be reckoned with, he took on opponents with a flair and technique that few have ever been able to replicate. Dancing around the ring, with slick footwork and lightning speed, his abilities weren’t only limited to physical prowess, he was a master of the mind too, unsettling his opponents with psychological warfare before, during and after fights, causing them to second guess themselves with his “trash talk”.
Becoming the first heavyweight to win three world titles, his most memorable moments include his historic victory over George Foreman in the ‘Rumble in the Jungle’, and his win against another American legend, Joe Frazier, at the ‘Thrilla in Manilla’ (after his equally historic loss against Frazier at ‘The Fight of the Century’). Muhammad Ali was and still is ‘The Greatest’.
Often hailed as the best pound-for-pound boxer in history, Sugar Ray Robinson's record is nothing short of incredible. With 173 knockout wins, Robinson was a master of the art of boxing, renowned for his impeccable footwork, speed, and power.
Despite being a welterweight and middleweight, Robinson's influence on the sport and boxers of all weight categories is immense. Robinson made his mark between 1940 and 1965, with a perfect record of 85 unbeaten fights as an amateur, with an incredible 69 by knockout.
Topping out his career with an incomprehensible 173 wins and 109 knockouts, his success soon translated into fame and fortune, and he became one of the first real celebrity boxers, attracting fame well beyond the boxing ring.
It seems Sugar is a popular nickname for boxers! One of the most skilled boxers of all time, Sugar Ray Leonard was a superstar of American boxing in the 1980s.
Spurred on by jealousy for his older brother’s collection of boxing trophies, Leonard exhibited world class talent at an early age, rising through the ranks to join the Team USA Olympic boxing team during his teens. Winning his first title at just 24 years old, he was already destined for a place in the history books.
Across the course of his 20-year career between 1977 and 1997, Sugar Ray Leonard won world championships in five divisions, achieving the title of “undisputed welterweight champion of the world”.
His most famous bouts included two fights that made up a welterweight tug of war between Leonard and the formidable Roberto Durán, first with a dramatic loss, losing the WBC Welterweight Championship to Durán, before taking it back from him just five months later. Leaving boxing three times over, he earned a reputation for frequent comebacks, including a final attempt in 1997 at the age of 40.
Check out our blog dedicated to Leonard here.
Joe Louis, the "Brown Bomber", held the heavyweight title for a staggering 140 consecutive months, defending his title 25 times during his 1937-51 career.
He earned his place in history for knocking down barriers of a different kind - not just opponents in the ring, but racial prejudice and the rise of Nazi sentiment in World War II. Becoming one of the first African American boxers to attain national acclaim, and defeating Nazi Germany’s Max Schmelling, Louis became an American hero.
He was a symbol of American pride during the war and is credited with breaking down racial barriers in boxing. Louis's powerful punches and tactical approach made him one of the most formidable fighters of his time.
A more recent entry to our list, Mayweather’s defensive prowess and sharp counter-punching abilities have seen him amass an unbeaten record over his illustrious career.
Mayweather Jr. was one of the most successful boxers of the 2000s and 2010s, with him being named the “Fighter of the Decade” for his 26 consecutive wins in world title fights, retiring undefeated in 2017 with 15 major world championships under his belt.
With victories over big names like Manny Pacquiao, Oscar De La Hoya, and Canelo Alvarez, Mayweather has proven time and again why he’s considered one of the best tactical boxers of all time.
A Nation of Greatness
It’s safe to say that America has produced more than its fair share of legendary boxers. From household names who’ve had an impact beyond the sport itself like Muhammad Ali, to those idolised by boxing experts for their unimpeachable technique like Floyd Mayweather Jr, the United States has made much more than a mark on our favourite sport.
Achieve your own greatness with Phenom’s range of boxing gloves, training gear and accessories.
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Julio César Chávez
There’s no discussion of Mexican boxing without first mentioning Julio César Chávez. Arguably Mexico’s greatest boxer of all time, Chávez held world titles in three different weight classes during his career: Super Featherweight, Lightweight, and Light Welterweight.
Known for his exceptional punching power, relentless pressure fighting, and robust chin, Chávez went undefeated in his first 89 professional fights, a feat that underscores his boxing prowess. His battles with the likes of Meldrick Taylor, Pernell Whitaker, and Hector Camacho are etched in the annals of boxing history.
Rubén Olivares
One of the finest bantamweights ever, Rubén Olivares held the world title in both the bantamweight and featherweight divisions. Olivares was famed for his potent knockout power, securing 79 of his 89 victories via knockout, a testament to his strength and precision.
His brawls with Chucho Castillo and Bobby Chacon are renowned as some of the most entertaining and brutal in boxing history. Olivares’ success and fight style have undoubtedly inspired many Mexican fighters who came after him.
Salvador Sanchez
Salvador Sanchez’s life and career may have been tragically cut short in a car accident at the age of 23, but his impact on the sport of boxing is indelible. In his brief yet outstanding career, Sanchez had already achieved legendary status, becoming a world champion in the featherweight division.
He is best known for his victories over Hall of Famers such as Wilfredo Gomez and Azumah Nelson. Sanchez’s defensive skills, combined with his accurate counter-punching, enthralled audiences, and his name still reverberates in the boxing world.
Juan Manuel Marquez
Juan Manuel Marquez, one of the four great Mexican fighters of his generation alongside Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, and Rafael Marquez, is undoubtedly a part of boxing royalty.
Known for his excellent counter-punching skills and high boxing IQ, Marquez’s most iconic moment came in his fourth fight against Manny Pacquiao, where he scored a stunning sixth-round knockout. His rivalry with Pacquiao is one of the most notable in boxing history.
Canelo Álvarez
The story of Mexico’s boxing heroes would be incomplete without the mention of Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez. Turning pro at just 15 years old, Canelo has established himself as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.
Known for his superb power, exceptional body punching, and impressive defensive skills, Canelo has claimed world titles in multiple weight divisions, demonstrating his versatility and dominance. His most significant victories to date include those over Gennady Golovkin, Sergey Kovalev, and Billy Joe Saunders.
Inspiring Future Generations
Mexico’s boxing history is packed with many more heroes whose courage, determination, and hard work continue to influence future generations. They’re not just fighters, but beacons of hope, showing that talent, paired with grit, can lead to immense success, and inspiring countless youngsters to follow in their footsteps. These boxing heroes are a testament to the fighting spirit that runs deep within Mexican culture, a spirit that will undoubtedly produce more champions in the years to come.
Chart your own history with Phenom’s gloves and training gear. Check out our complete range and shop now.
The Romans escalated this fighter-first protective approach. Their boxing gloves, the 'caestus', were often laden with metal, transforming a boxer's hand into a deadly weapon. Unfortunately, this resulted in boxing developing an excessively violent reputation, leading to its banishment around the 4th century AD.
The Resurgence: 17th Century Onwards
The revival of boxing in 17th century England brought about the reintroduction of boxing gloves, albeit in a crude and rudimentary form. These early gloves, also known as 'mufflers', were essentially leather mitts filled with horsehair. They were generally used in training, while official matches were still bare-knuckle brawls.
The introduction of the Marquess of Queensberry rules in 1867 marked a significant turning point for the sport. Named after John Douglas, the 9th Marquess of Queensberry, these rules required fighters to wear padded gloves, marking the end of the bare-knuckle era. This had a significant impact on boxing, making it safer and more acceptable to the wider public, and charted its path towards becoming a global sport.
The 20th Century: The Golden Age of Boxing
The 20th century, often referred to as the 'golden age of boxing', saw a major transformation in the design and structure of boxing gloves. Initially, gloves were made with a simple, one-piece design, with little distinction between the thumb and other fingers. However, a series of nasty injuries led to the introduction of the thumb-lock design to prevent accidents, a key innovation.
The Modern Era: Technological Advancements
In the 21st century, boxing gloves haven’t escaped the march of innovative technology. Advances in material science have led to the development of synthetic materials that are lighter, stronger, and more durable than traditional leather. The use of advanced foam technology and protective padding has increased shock absorption, thereby reducing the risk of injury.
Today's gloves come in various sizes and weights, tailored to different aspects of boxing, from training and sparring to professional bouts. Each glove is a product of decades of evolution and improvement, with safety and performance being paramount.
The Future Is Bright
The history of boxing gloves reflects the evolution of boxing from a deadly combat sport to a regulated, safer, and globally recognised game. The gloves have transformed from simple hand wraps to high-tech gear designed to enhance performance and safety. As boxing continues to evolve, we can only expect this trend of evolution to continue, with gloves becoming increasingly advanced and specialised. Technology is set to play an even more pivotal role, both in terms of materials used and in enhancing training techniques.
The boxing glove represents much more than a protective tool. It is a symbol of the sport’s heritage, a testament to its evolution, and a crucial aspect of its future. It encapsulates the ethos of boxing: strength, skill, and above all, respect for the opponent's safety.
At Phenom we’ve spent years searching for foams, fabrics and advanced materials from around the world to make our gloves the best of the best, offering optimal protection to both the wearer and your opponents. Explore our range now and feel the Phenom Difference.
Throughout his career, Davis has showcased exceptional talent, hard work, and a never-say-die attitude. Born on 7th November 1994, in Baltimore, Maryland, Davis now stands as one of the most exciting rising stars in the world of boxing. In this latest edition of our Phenom boxer profiles, we’ll take a closer look at the life and career of this exceptional boxer, highlighting his early life, amateur career, professional accomplishments, and future prospects.
“Turn Something Negative Into A Positive”
Gervonta Davis grew up in the rough and tumble streets of Baltimore, where he faced a heap of challenges and obstacles in his childhood. Davis’ first fights were on the streets of his neighbourhood, defending himself amidst battles with other kids in Sandtown-Winchester, one of the most crime-infested areas of an already notorious city. Raised by a single mother who battled a drug addiction following the imprisonment of his father, Davis’ uncle, James Walker, witnessed one of the street battles and told his nephew, “we’ve got to turn something negative into a positive.” With money from another uncle to purchase his first pair of boxing gloves, they accompanied him to a gym run by coach Calvin Ford.
With the help of his new coach, Davis quickly built an impressive amateur record of 206 wins and 15 losses, a testament to his dedication and hard work. He won several national championships, including the National Golden Gloves in 2012 and three National Silver Gloves from 2006 to 2008. These accomplishments would serve as the foundation for his transition to the professional ranks.
The Youngest World Champion
Gervonta Davis made his professional debut on 22nd February 2013, with a first-round knockout victory. From there, his career went stratospheric with a string of explosive performances. His first attempt for a major title came on 14th January 2017, when he faced then-undefeated IBF Super Featherweight Champion Jose Pedraza. In a stunning upset, Davis claimed the title with a seventh-round knockout, making him the youngest world champion in boxing at the age of 22.
Over the next few years, Davis continued to dominate his weight class, winning multiple titles and defending them successfully. His most notable victories include a third-round knockout of Liam Walsh in 2017, a first-round knockout of Hugo Ruiz in 2019, and a thrilling 12th-round knockout of Yuriorkis Gamboa in 2019.
Beyond Rising Star
Since moving up to the lightweight division in 2020, Gervonta Davis has achieved significant success, winning the WBA (Regular) Lightweight title with a brutal sixth-round knockout of Leo Santa Cruz. This victory solidified his status as a multi-division world champion and showcased his ability to conquer new challenges.
In 2021, Davis continued to make waves in the boxing world, defeating Mario Barrios for the WBA (Regular) Super Lightweight title in a thrilling battle. Displaying his characteristic power and precision, Davis secured a 11th-round TKO victory, further demonstrating his prowess as a champion in multiple weight classes.
Gervonta Davis' unique style has only helped accelerate his success. Characterised by his explosive power and ability to end fights quickly, as a southpaw, he brings a unique angle to his punches that often catches opponents off guard.
His compact frame and athleticism allow him to generate incredible force behind his shots, making him a dangerous opponent for anyone who braves facing up to him. Davis adopts an aggressive approach, constantly applying pressure and seeking openings to land his powerful blows. His impeccable timing and precision enable him to capitalise on these opportunities, often resulting in devastating knockouts that leave fans in awe of his prowess.
The Future’s Bright
At just 28 years old, Gervonta Davis's career shows no signs of slowing down. With numerous accolades and titles under his belt, he’s established himself as one of the most exciting and dominant fighters in the sport today.
As Davis continues to progress and face new challenges, the boxing world eagerly awaits to see what new heights he’ll reach and what legacy he’ll ultimately leave behind.
Perseverance, Determination, and Triumph
Gervonta Davis's story is one of perseverance, determination, and triumph. From the adversity he faced in his early life on the streets of Baltimore to the heights he’s reached in the boxing world, Davis's journey serves as an inspiration to many.
His unwavering commitment to the sport and his relentless pursuit of victory have solidified his place among the boxing greats. As he continues to evolve and push the boundaries of what's possible in the ring, Gervonta Davis will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the sport and inspire future generations of fighters to chase their dreams and achieve boxing greatness.
]]>In this latest Phenom boxer profile, we take a look at the already storied career of this young titan, exploring his path to greatness, both in the ring, and outside of it.
A Rising Star… of Baseball?
Growing up in the sun-kissed town of Los Alamitos in Southern California, Garcia fell in love with sport at an early age. This love soon translated into high scores, but not, surprisingly, in boxing. Garcia’s first passion came in the form of baseball, with many seeing him as “the next Babe Ruth” (the legendary baseball player from the early 1900s). But bats and balls it wasn’t to be, as Garcia soon became more interested in hitting different kinds of strikes - ones involving a fist and a glove.
Garcia later noted, “I wanted a sport where it could be one-on-one. My uncle showed me a video of a sport called boxing. I was like, 'All right, I’ll try it’. He took me to his garage and put a pair of gloves on me, and right when I did that first jab, I was pretty much just in love with the sound of the mitt. That snap.”
The rest, as they say, is history.
A Not-So-Amateur Career
With Olympic ambitions, Garcia was now waiting in the wings while the professional stage was set.
Garcia’s passion for boxing made him an unstoppable force in the amateur world, with a record of 215 wins to only 15 losses. He was a 15-time national champion and won gold medals at the Ringside World Championships, Junior Olympics, and the National Golden Gloves. In 2014, he was named the USA Boxing Youth Male Athlete of the Year.
The Knockout King
Garcia entered the professional boxing world with a bang at the tender age of 17 in 2016. His winning streak in amateur competition wasn’t a fluke - he was unstoppable in the big rings too.
His first professional bout against Edgar Meza was a thunderous victory, and that led to him quickly being snapped up by Golden Boy Promotions, one of the biggest boxing promoters in the business.
By 2020, Garcia had already amassed a perfect record of 20 wins, with 17 of those coming by way of knockout. Notable victories include a first-round knockout of Romero Duno and a stunning seventh-round knockout against Luke Campbell, which earned him the interim WBC Lightweight Title. Garcia's rapid ascent in the boxing world turned heads and quickly established him as a future star.
The Flash’s Lightning Fast Hands
Ryan Garcia knocks other boxers out of the park with his lightning-fast hand speed, something that has earned him another nickname - ‘The Flash’.
His rapid combinations and powerful punches often leave his opponents dazed and confused in the midst of battle. Garcia's speed has often been compared to that of legendary boxers like Sugar Ray Leonard and Manny Pacquiao, boxers he once could have only dreamed about being compared to.
Social Media Sensation
Ryan Garcia's success isn't limited to the boxing ring. He has a massive following on social media, with millions of followers across Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
One of the boxing world’s first social media influencers, his charismatic personality, eye-catching training footage, and behind-the-scenes content have attracted fans worldwide, giving them a ringside seat to the King Ryan story.
Garcia has used his online presence to expand his brand, secure endorsements, and create hype around his fights. The hype has paid off too; in 2021 he signed an endorsement deal with US energy drinks brand Gatorade, making him the first boxer to ever front a Gatorade advertising campaign.
The Future’s Bright For The Flash
After a meteoric rise through the upper echelons of boxing, and still only 24 years of age, Garcia is already one of the world’s most famous boxers with his sights set on global domination.
From ruling the amateur circuit to capturing the WBC interim lightweight title, Garcia has proven that he is a force to be reckoned with. His magnetic personality and social media influence have only elevated his status, turning him into a brand ambassador for major brands like Gatorade.
With his remarkable speed, exceptional talent, and a growing list of accomplishments, the question of whether Ryan Garcia will become a future legend in the boxing world seems more like an inevitability. As he continues to write his own story in the annals of boxing history, the world will undoubtedly be watching, captivated by the electric performance of ‘King Ryan.’
“Thank you to those who have been supporting me since day one. You have seen my whole journey from the garage to the biggest stage”. - Ryan Garcia.
]]>While Lyle wasn’t well known for a succession of victories or world championship titles, he did become renowned for his style, flair and pure determination, quite often against all the odds. Read on to discover how he turned around a murder conviction and a near-death experience into one of the most storied boxing careers of the 1970s.
19 Siblings And Counting
Life didn’t start out easy to begin with for Ron Lyle. He was born on 12th February 1941 in Dayton, Ohio. The third child of his parents William and Nellie Lyle, young Ron wasn’t short of siblings. He was eventually joined by 18 more. Being part of such a large family had its drawbacks, and the Lyle family frequently struggled to make ends meet.
Growing up in inner-city Denver, Colorado, Lyle soon got involved with local gangs who often found themselves on the wrong side of the law. These early dalliances with the boys in blue were only a sign of things to come.
Murder, He Wrote
After dropping out of high school at the age of 19, Lyle was arrested for his involvement in the murder of a 21-year-old gang rival. Lyle alleged that he was being attacked with a lead pipe before the shooting occurred, and that he was not the person who pulled the trigger. Nevertheless, he was convicted of second-degree murder, and sentenced to 15-to-25 years in jail. For a 19-year-old about to miss out on his 20s and 30s, Lyle was convinced his life was effectively over.
He Was Almost Murdered Himself
It was almost really over. After his conviction, Lyle was sent to Colorado State Penitentiary, a notorious prison packed with some of the state’s most serious offenders. He soon faced up to the harsh reality of his new surroundings, as he was attacked and stabbed by another inmate. Lyle almost died on the operating table, but was saved after an eye-watering 36 blood transfusions.
The incident led to Lyle being sent to solitary confinement for 90 days afterwards, a decision which marked a significant turning point in his life. With so much time on his hands, he turned to using his surroundings to improve his situation. He spent his time doing pushups, sit-ups, squats and a variety of other exercises, building up his strength, physically and mentally.
This newfound approach to fitness is ultimately what led to him taking an interest in sports, but not boxing. Yet.
Legendary Football Coach?
Having hit rock bottom, Lyle was determined to get himself out of “the hole”. With his energy now focused on fitness, and with a subsequently improved physique, Lyle decided to take the reins of a prison football team known as the Wildcats, as part of the Black Cultural Development Society self-help group. He successfully led the team through a championship, but football wasn’t where he was destined to be.
Lyle first witnessed a prison boxing event as a spectator on July 4, 1962 and was inspired to take part. Prison Officer Cliff Mattax, the athletic director at the prison, played a significant role in Lyle’s initial interest in boxing. Although when Mattax first tried to woo Ron to the sport, he was met with resistance: "man, you're a screw and I'm a convict. I came here by myself and I'll leave the same way”, Ron responded.
But with a newfound focus following his near-death experience, Ron changed his attitude. "It was a turning point in my life. Although Mattax was white and wore a badge, he genuinely cared about me and my abilities. That's when I made the decision to be successful," Ron later recalled. Mattax, on the other hand, downplayed his contribution: "I don't like to take any credit, but Ron transformed into a real gentleman.”
In his debut match for the prison boxing team, Lyle was defeated by Texas Johnson, but he went on to win all his subsequent matches. Prison Warden Wayne K. Patterson referred to Lyle as a "natural born athlete.”
The Muhammad Ali Of Prison Boxing
During the rest of his prison term, Lyle had about 25 informal boxing matches, losing only once and winning six heavyweight competitions. Despite being eligible for parole at the age of 28, he was denied twice, and a professional boxing career was deemed an unlikely prospect.
Despite being behind bars, his reputation reached the city of Denver, where the Denver Rocks boxing team had recently joined the International Boxing League. Bill Daniels, a cable TV executive and owner of the Denver Rocks, offered Lyle a job as a welder at his company to help increase Lyle’s chances of being offered parole. On 9th November 1969, Lyle’s wish was answered - he was released on parole after serving seven and a half years in prison. The next day, he turned up at the Rocks' gym in Denver and made the team after trying out.
His Most Famous Fights Were Losses
Not long after his release, Ron Lyle skyrocketed into the upper echelons of professional boxing, quickly building up a streak of winning matches. One of the most memorable moments of Lyle's professional career came in 1975, when he faced George Foreman in a highly anticipated match. Despite being a significant underdog, Lyle gave Foreman all he could handle, coming close to knocking him out more than once. Although he lost the fight, he gained the respect of boxing fans and experts alike for his tenacity and bravery in the face of Foreman. This performance helped cement his reputation as an unforgiving competitor, one certainly not afraid to take on anyone.
In 1976, Lyle faced another legendary heavyweight, Muhammad Ali, otherwise known as “The Greatest". Although again he lost the fight, Lyle impressed fans with an impeccable technique and his sheer fearlessness when engaging in a toe-to-toe battle with one of the greatest boxers of all time. The fight was a testament to Lyle's strength and his determination to succeed, even when it seemed like the world was against him.
It’s Not Always About The Winning
Ron Lyle's life was one of redemption and perseverance. In the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, whether it was growing up in poverty, involvement in gang violence, a murder conviction and a near-death experience in prison, he was able to turn his life around through his passion for boxing. Despite not having a succession of notorious victories or world championship titles, Lyle remains one of the most talked about boxers of the 1970s, serving as an inspiration for millions who grew up watching him.
]]>Here’s four of our favourite facts about this sporting titan.
He Grew Up in An Abandoned Railroad Carriage
Julio César Chávez was born on 12th July 1962 into a poor family in Sonora, Mexico. With Chávez’s father working for the local railroad company, they took up residence inside an abandoned train carriage; their only option to avoid homelessness.
Chávez was spurred on from his impoverished youth, and intentionally took up boxing with the aim of earning money to support his family. He later told of his motivations for becoming a boxer, "I saw my Mom working, ironing, and washing people's clothes, and I promised her I would give her a house someday, and she would never have that job again."
Chavez did buy that house for his mother, and continues to support his family to this day. A different kind of achievement to his fighting wins, but a significant one nonetheless."
He Almost Had A Much Smaller Winning Streak
Chávez started boxing professionally in 1980 at the age of 17. Most professional boxers who become big do so because they have a long-standing unbeaten streak of winning matches, but Chávez’s streak was almost abruptly curtailed during only his twelfth fight.
In a battle with Miguel Ruiz, Chávez dealt a heavy blow that knocked out his competitor. But it was a photo finish, as the KO happened just as the bell sounded - an act that led to Chávez’s disqualification from the fight and with Ruiz declared the winner.
The next day, Chávez’s manager, Ramón Felix protested to the Mexican boxing commission that the declaration was misjudged, and in a decision that changed the course of his career, the result was changed and Chávez was hailed as the victor.
Julio César Chávez went on to win an incredible 89 fights in a row, one of the longest winning streaks in history.
He Holds The Record For The Largest Attendance At An Outdoor Boxing Match
136,274 people. That’s how many attended Chávez’s 1993 tussle with American Greg Haugen, the most for any outdoor match in history.
Before the fight, to be held in Chávez’s native Mexico, Haugen riled up the local population with derogatory remarks including his assertion that “there aren't 130,000 Mexicans who can afford tickets”. In the end, 6,274 more than that showed up, almost all of them to give their backing to their local hero. Chávez hit back, saying “I am going to give him the worst beating of his life; I am going to make him swallow the words that came out of his dirty mouth."
Haugen certainly did swallow his words, as he lost in a TKO victory for Chávez before a jubilant Mexico City crowd.
He Rode in The Pope’s Car To Meet The President of Mexico
In September 1992, the stage was set for Chávez to face Héctor “Macho” Camacho, one of Puerto Rico’s most iconic fighters and the WBO Light Welterweight Champion.
This highly anticipated bout, with two South American titans battling it out, captured the hearts and minds of both countries, with the Mexican people putting their all behind Chávez.
In the end, Chávez dominated Camacho, with a unanimous decision victory and Chávez decisively winning every round with scores of 117–111, 119-110 and 120-107.
The President of Mexico at the time, Carlos Salinas de Gortari, gave Chávez a hero’s welcome to celebrate his return home from the fight, sending the special car solely reserved for the Pope to transport him to the President’s house.
It goes without saying, very few boxers get that kind of treatment.
“The Great Mexican Champion"
With 107 wins and only 6 losses, it’s no surprise Julio César Chávez is regarded as one of the greatest boxers in Mexican history.
Comfortably retired, and a national hero, determined to be unbeatable across multiple weight classes, he was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2011.
Now, it’s your turn. Make your own history with our professional boxing equipment, including gloves, training gear and more. Discover the full range on our site.
]]>Welcome to the first in a new series of Phenom boxer profiles, where we’ll take a deep dive into the big names that have shaped boxing throughout its history. From the victorious to the notorious, we’ll explore the legends of this incredible sport.
First up, it’s “Sugar” Ray Leonard - a boxing legend once described as the “greatest living fighter”... but what earned him that reputation? And what led to him being called “Sugar”? (and no he wasn’t sponsored by Cadbury).
How It All Started: Overtaking His Boxing Brother (By A Long Shot)
Ray Charles Leonard, as he was known before adopting his sweet nickname, wasn’t really destined to be a boxer. Not until his older brother Roger, who’d been boxing for a while already, showed off his impressive boxing trophies. That was enough to spur a young Ray into the sport. Perhaps jealousy isn’t always a bad thing?
Ray soon KO’d his brother’s record, rising through the ranks and reaching the featherweight quarterfinals of the US National Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Tournament. With Olympic ambitions, he boxed in the Eastern Olympic Trials aged 16, lying about his age to bypass the 17-year-old age requirement.
Joining “The Greatest Boxing Team in the History of the Olympics”... as a Teenager?
After winning the National Golden Gloves and the AAU Light Welterweight Championships in 1974 as well as a string of other amateur competitions, a teenage Sugar was selected for the US Olympic Team in 1974 as the light welterweight representative. The team he joined became known as the greatest boxing team in the history of the Olympics, with Sugar himself winning five Olympic bouts each with 5-0 decisions. In the final, he faced Andrés Aldama from Cuba, and after a dramatic competition that went down to the wire, Sugar won with yet another 5-0 decision.
At Last: How Sugar Became Sugar
So, why is Sugar Ray Leaonard called “Sugar”? While boxing his way to his first international competition, he made waves with the assistant coach of US Olympic Boxing Team, Sarge Johnson, who told Ray’s coach: “That kid you got is as sweet as sugar”. And the rest, as they say, was history.
The End of Sugar Ray Leonard (Not Quite)
Upon winning the Olympic title, Sugar declared: "I'm finished...I've fought my last fight. My journey has ended, my dream is fulfilled. Now I want to go to school.” While he did win a scholarship to the University of Maryland, Sugar Ray Leonard was far from finished.
The Shock Love Child That Changed Everything
Events soon took a different turn for Sugar, with his plans to go to university quickly dashed by news that his high school girlfriend was pregnant. While preparing for the Olympics, the soon-to-be mother of his child, Juanita Wilkinson, filed for child support payments without Sugar’s knowledge.
While Sugar pledged to support his new son, the news of the child support application reached the press, and during a time where a child born out of wedlock was still frowned upon, Sugar’s chances of being paid for commercial endorsements off the back of his Olympic title were dead in the water.
With a newborn son, and his parents struck down with illnesses, Sugar needed cash. He knew he could earn with his fists, and so decided to turn his back on studying and return to fighting.
The $21,000 Loan (And One Very Early Repayment)
Sugar’s potential after his Olympic triumph didn’t go unnoticed, and it didn’t take him long to find investors to support his entry into professional boxing. With a $21,000 loan behind him (to be repaid over four years), Angelo Dundee, known for his work with Muhammad Ali, became Sugar’s trainer, ensuring everything was set for success.
His first professional fight, in front of over 10,000 people in Baltimore, was a triumph. Sugar defeated his opponent, Luis “The Bull” Vega by a six-round unanimous decision, netting him $40,044, a life-changing sum in 1977. Adjusted for inflation, that’s equivalent to $196,923 today.
Sugar repaid his $21,000 loan on the spot. A storied professional career was just beginning.
Give It Back! The Welterweight Championship Tug of War
With his career moving at lightspeed, in 1979 he defeated the World Boxing Council (WBC) welterweight champion, Wilfred Benítez, before losing the title in 1980 after a notorious fight with Roberto Durán. Only five months passed before Sugar dramatically clinched the WBC title back after a rematch with Durán. He held onto the accolade, winning the World Boxing Association’s (WBA) equivalent welterweight title by defeating Thomas Hearns in 1981.
Welterweight, Middleweight, ALL of the Weights!
Well not exactly all of them, but a lot of them. While most boxers stay in their lane when it comes to weight classes, Sugar went onto dominate a few.
Sugar showed his versatility as a boxer with success in multiple weight classes, winning the WBA junior-middleweight title in 1981, knocking out Ayub Kalule after nine rounds. He also won matches as a light middleweight, super middleweight and light heavyweight. Phew. Sugar must have needed a good set of weighing scales...
The End of Sugar Ray Leonard (Again, Not Quite)
With legendary status already achieved, Sugar decided to bow out of the sport in 1982. But that was far from the end of his story.
Sugar returned to professional boxing in 1982, before retiring and returning twice over. Upon his third retirement in 1987, he alluded to his stickiness to the sport, telling the press that despite his most recent decision to retire, “...but you guys know me.”
A Return To The Ring (x4)
They did know him, because Sugar returned in 1997 at age 40, losing after a technical knockout in round five of his comeback match against 34-year-old Héctor Camacho. This was the last straw, with Sugar making his final departure from the sport that same year.
With 36 wins, 25 of them by knockout, Sugar Ray Leonard earned his place in the boxing history books, being inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1997.
Fame And Fortune
With such an extensive rap sheet, Sugar continues to enjoy the fruits of his labour, taking up multiple sponsorship and TV roles. Now in his 60s, he supports a host of charities, using his recognition to promote a variety of good causes.
Sugar Ray Leonard’s career originally wasn’t meant to be, but a twist in fate gave us all one of the greatest boxers of all time.
Now, it’s your turn. Make your own history with our professional boxing equipment, including gloves, training gear and more. Discover the full range on our site.
Whether a clash of titans or for more notorious reasons, some fights have shocked and awed audiences far beyond the ringside seats. In this post we’ll explore five of those iconic fights, and discover exactly what made them so momentous.
“Fight of the Century” - 1971
It’s no surprise to find a fight with a title like that in our list. It’s also no surprise that this fight had Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, two of the greatest boxers of all time, going head to head for the world heavyweight title.
The fight, one of the most hotly anticipated sporting events in history, has long been regarded as the biggest boxing match ever. The match garnered the attention of not only boxing fans, but the wider public in general, and attained 300 million TV viewers worldwide, including 27.5 million viewers on BBC One in the UK, making it one of the most watched television broadcasts in British history.
Beyond the titanic opponents, what made this such a special fight? The match represented the first time that two undefeated holders of the world heavyweight title went up against each other for that very title. But that wasn’t all, as the fight had much more significant cultural impact as well. The match took place amid significant social and cultural upheaval in the United States, with the Vietnam war and the rise of counterculture forming a backdrop to the event.
Muhammad Ali polarised opinion by refusing to accept the draft to fight in the war, with his boxing titles withdrawn as a result. This resistance made him a symbol of the anti-war youth, while Joe Frazier had been warmly adopted by the pro-war public for his support of the conflict and acceptance of the draft.
Over the course of 15 relentless rounds, the two legendary fighters pummelled each other so much that unfounded rumours of their deaths percolated amongst fans following the match. In the end, the undefeated became defeated, and Joe Frazier became the first person to beat Muhammad Ali, landing him a place in boxing history.
“Rumble in the Jungle” - 1974
While the “Fight of the Century” was perhaps the biggest match in history, this next one could easily qualify for second place. A few years following his defeat to Frazier, Muhammad Ali was undeterred in facing up to George Foreman, a man then best known for the mighty punches he could throw, and not his line of electric grills.
After ripping Ali’s nemesis, Joe Frazier, to pieces in a previous fight, Foreman was to take on Ali himself in Zaire, a country now known as the Congo, in a fight billed as the “Rumble in the Jungle”.
Much like Ali’s last blockbuster fight, this match was just as hotly anticipated, with an estimated 1 billion TV viewers watching around the globe and $100 million worth of pay-per-view TV viewers in the United States; a hefty sum for 1974.
While Ali was seen as the underdog going into this fight, going up against the mighty and powerful “Big George”, he managed to win back his reputation using his now renowned “rope-a-dope” technique. This involved Ali leaning back on the ropes of the ring, neatly avoiding Foreman’s punches, and thus allowing George to tire himself out. Ali swooped in on this fatigue and knocked out his opponent, taking back his crown in the process.
Evander Holyfield vs. Mike Tyson II - 1997
This one definitely fits the ‘notorious’ category. Walking in the footsteps of his similarly mighty forefathers including the likes of Ali, Frazier and Foreman, Mike Tyson took centre stage in the 80s and 90s, as the undefeated world heavyweight champion between 1987 and 1990. Described as “the most ferocious fighter to step into a professional ring”, Tyson was sure to take on his far less famous opponent Evander Holyfield with ease during their 1996 WBA heavyweight final. Much to the surprise of all, Holyfield did the impossible and beat Tyson after 11 rounds.
During their rematch at the MGM Grand Garden in Las Vegas, all hell broke loose. As Holyfield was proving why his first win certainly wasn’t a fluke, Tyson decided to bite off a piece Holyfield’s ear.
The act, which came to be associated with Tyson for the rest of his career, had him disqualified from the match, and professional boxing altogether. Mike Tyson’s identity as a boxer was to never be the same again.
Julio César Chávez vs. Meldrick Taylor - 1990
Not every iconic boxing match involves heavyweight titans drawing billions of viewers. Julio César Chávez’s bout against Meldrick Taylor at the 1990 light welterweight world championships took its place in boxing history for the shocking outcome of what was billed “Thunder Meets Lightning”.
Julio César Chávez was so far undefeated, with a winning streak of 68-0; the longest for almost 80 years. The brilliant, but vastly less experienced Meldrick Taylor, was consequently seen as no match for Chávez.
To the surprise of boxing fans everywhere, Taylor developed the upper hand in the match, which produced a ferocious response from Chávez. With only two seconds left, and with a surefire win on the cards for Taylor, Chávez scored a knockout and took Taylor out of the contest. Understandably, the crowd were beside themselves in shock. If those two seconds had gone differently, Taylor would have become the first boxer to end Chávez’s legendary streak.
Floyd Mayweather Jr vs. Manny Pacquiao - 2015
While Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier’s famous tussle was billed as the “Fight of the Century”, this battle between their modern day equivalents, Floyd Mayweather Jr and Manny Pacquiao, could have been the “Fight of the 21st Century”.
With an enormous build up, and anticipation reaching fever pitch, this fight was a decade in the making. Despite intense demand to see these two face up to each other for years, it took the best part of 10 years for them to agree to do it.
Unfortunately, the fight didn’t quite live up to the hype. Instead of intense combat, Mayweather Jr. took on a defence-oriented strategy, resisting Pacquiao who had difficulty landing his punches. Mayweather Jr. won by a 12-round unanimous decision. Not all matches end with fireworks.
The Future: You Vs. ?
Boxing is a sport filled with legendary tales of triumph and tragedy, a spectacle that’s been entertaining billions around the world for well over a century. Here we’ve explored just a few of the sport’s most iconic moments, with so many more we couldn’t fit in this blog post.
Now, it’s your turn. Make your own history with our professional boxing equipment, including gloves, training gear and more. Discover the full range on our site.
]]>If you don’t know the difference between your heavyweights, flyweights and bantamweights, you’re in the right place. Here we’ll demystify weight classes and tell you everything you need to know.
What Are Weight Classes?
We use weight classes in boxing to classify different weights of boxers. The idea of weight classes is to ensure a level playing field and fair competition between boxers who are of different weights, heights and ages.
In each of the weight classes or divisions (as they’re sometimes called), there are upper and lower limits, except of course the heavyweight division where there is no upper limit. Generally, older boxers are more likely to move up the weight classes due to the higher levels of bone density and muscle mass that comes with age.
Across the weight classes, you’ll find classic divisions such as heavyweight, alongside more recent additions like welterweight which are often referred to as ‘tweener’ divisions as they sit between the older, more established classes.
Introducing The Weight Classes
Currently there are 18 weight classes used across professional boxing. They start from the lowest, strawweight at 105lbs, rising up to heavyweight at 200lbs. Here’s the full list:
All About Weigh-Ins
To ensure boxers fit in their weight class, weigh-ins take place the day before a fight. The two competitors set to face each other in a fight are weighed at the same time, ensuring their weight is not over a pre-arranged limit.
These limits include the weight classes outlined previously, but also catchweights, which allow an agreement to be made between fighters to allow them to fight at unconventional weight limits. Catchweights are invoked in cases where boxers may not be willing to gain or lose weight to meet a more traditional weight class.
Weight limits are serious business, as they can heavily influence the outcome of a fight. A lower weight class for a heavier boxer could make things easier for them, so competitors often go to extreme lengths to lose weight in an effort to meet the limit. Some boxers even insist upon being weighed naked to reduce the influence of clothing upon their weight! And more commonly boxers will dehydrate themselves to reduce their weight through water loss, but this is often frowned upon due to the obvious health risks, and the potential for it to lead to an unfair advantage.
Time To Get On The Scales
The unfamiliar terminology used to describe weight classes can often make them seem far more complicated than they really are. Simply put, weight classes offer boxers a reliable method to categorise competitors to ensure a fair and level playing field for all.
Get yourself competition ready with a pair of Phenom fight gloves, crafted to give you the edge in the ring.
]]>If you’re new to boxing, or you’re looking to start boxing competitively, the scoring system can take a while to get your head around.
Unlike a lot of sports, like football or basketball for example, the way of scoring points is less obvious when you step into the ring. But never fear; here we tell you exactly how the system works, and you’ll see why in fact it’s actually quite straightforward.
Professional boxing uses a system called the 10-point must system. A panel of three judges uses this system to decide how to score boxing matches.
At the heart of the system is a 10-point scale, with rounds usually ending up as a 10-9 score between the two boxers. The boxer who dominates the round usually gets 10, while their competitor gets 9 points.
If a boxer is knocked down to the floor, he or she will be deducted a point. If the boxer ends up down twice in a round, they’ll lose an additional point. If both competitors are knocked down, neither will lose a point.
Despite this, it’s possible for the round to be declared even, with both boxers receiving 10 points each. And referees can also deduct points, for both intentional fouls and unintentional ones after a warning.
Judges have a lot of discretion in choosing who gets points and who loses points, but these decisions will be guided by a set of principles they’ll follow when observing boxers in the ring.
Judges will also be keeping an eye out for the type of punch, favouring those that are hard and clean in their execution, making a determination between unsuccessful shots and those that strike an opponent cleanly, and taking it into account in the scores they award. They’ll also be looking out for the effectiveness of a boxer’s aggression; if a contender is simply acting aggressively but not landing any punches, they’ll be viewed upon less favourably.
As well as attack, defence will also be at the forefront of the judges’ minds. The judges will watching out for a boxer dodging, parrying and slipping punches successfully as much as they’ll appreciate clean punches.
Judges will also be keeping an eye out for the overall attitude of boxers in the ring, and asking themselves whether a fighter is controlling the fight, and dominating the other challenger in style.
All of these factors will influence the points they decide to award, not award, or take away.
At the end of the bout, the judges will present their final decision based upon the scores accrued from their scorecards. A unanimous decision is one where all three judges give the same fighter more points, resulting in a clear victory for the best performing fighter.
A split decision occurs when two out of three judges have the same contender with more points, versus one judge who has awarded more points to the other contender. Despite being called a ‘split’ decision, the fighter with more points from two judges will still be declared the winner.
The same goes for a majority decision, where two judges also give more points to one fighter, but the other decides the match is a draw - again the boxer with the most points from two judges will still be the winner.
So can you ever get a draw in a boxing match? Simply: Yes. A draw can result where two judges decide the match is a draw, or if one of the judges votes in favour of one fighter, the other judge votes for the other fighter, and the third judge decides it is a draw.
That’s the boxing scoring system demystified. While on the surface, with confusing terms (like a ‘split decision' that actually results in one winner), the scoring system can seem quite complicated, but as you’ve seen, it’s actually pretty easy to understand in practice. Now that you know the score, it’s time to get in the ring. Get prepared with our range of handcrafted boxing gloves designed for all experience levels.
]]>Boxing is a sport of practice. Using our expertise, we’ve put together a top five list of tips for beginners; tips we believe will help you put your best foot forward during your first bouts in the ring.
Stay Relaxed
The thought of being in a boxing ring while an opponent squares you up can be quite a stressful one. As well as your opponent likely seeking to take advantage of your fear, nervousness also does little to help your performance.
Loosen up and throw relaxed punches. The more relaxed you are, the more you’ll be able to control the speed and power of your punch. Keep your fists loose until the moment you strike your opponent, helping you to deliver more precise strikes. It’s also helpful to loosen up your shoulders, as this will allow you to be more agile as you glide around the ring.
Ultimately, try not to waste your energy on tension, preserve it for taking on your opponent.
Control Your Breathing
When your opponent is charging towards you, it can cause your breathing to become heavy and rapid. If you keep this up, you’ll quickly find yourself out of breath, and not long after that, out of energy.
Get used to managing your breathing while training with a bag. Before every combination, make sure you take a breath, and then breathe out when throwing a punch. Following this breathing pattern will help you stay in control, delivering maximum oxygen when it’s needed most. Translating this pattern to bouts in the ring will also help you stay focused, as it becomes second nature.
Practise Combinations
Combinations are crucial to giving you the edge over your opponent. Combine multiple types of punch into a sequence rather than throwing one punch at a time. Maintaining your attack once you’ve started will keep your opponent from easily retaliating.
Implementing combinations will also tire out your opponent, knocking them back enough to give you more opportunities to swoop in again.
Develop your combinations during bag training and while practising with a sparring partner. Find combinations that suit you best, and be ready to deploy them when they’re needed most.
Don’t Become Footloose
Boxing isn’t all about the fists. Where you place your feet, and how you stand on them, is pretty important too.
Your focus should always be on agility. Ensure you centre your weight on the balls of your feet, and not on your front foot. This will help you to move more quickly, evading punches, while also helping you to swoop in and strike when the time is right.
Practise your positioning too, using different angles depending upon the situation. Rather than stepping backwards to dodge a punch, try sliding your feet to turn your body at an angle perfect for avoiding the strike, while also placing you in the perfect position for hitting back.
Be Yourself In The Ring
Boxing is a display of strength and athletic prowess. This can often make it easy to get caught up on how you look in the ring, rather than how you’re performing. Just as is the case for an actor on a stage, you’ll perform better if you let go of your inhibitions.
If you spend your fight worrying about how you look, you’ll increase your tension, and you’ll be second guessing every punch, not for how much it’ll push back your opponent, but for how it makes you appear. Bring your focus back to your breathing and your combinations, and you’ll be back in pole position.
It’s Time To Up Your Game
Boxing in a ring for the first time is a daunting prospect. It’s not simply a game of throwing punches and knocking out opponents, there’s much more to the sport than meets the eye, or the fist. But with these simple tips, and the right kit, you’ll be setting yourself up for victory.]]>As a boxer, you know how important it is to have the right gear for the task. Ensuring you choose the right glove is vital, but choosing the correct size is also just as important. While you likely know your shoe size, you probably don’t know your glove size. So how do you go about finding the right size gloves for your hands?
In this guide, we’ll show you how to choose exactly the right size, ensuring the ones you pick fit like a glove, quite literally.
Understanding Glove Sizes
The sizing of your glove depends on the type of glove you’re buying. For bag gloves, you’ll usually find sizes ranging from Small to XXL. Sparring gloves come in various weights, ranging from 12oz up to 18oz. Professional fight gloves also come in two weights, either 8oz or 10oz.
Choosing the correct size or weight varies for each type of glove, and that’s what we’ll explain next.
Sizing For Bag Gloves
Training makes you a better boxer, so be sure to pick gloves that pack a punch. Ensuring you have the right size and fit for training is just as important as it is for fighting in the ring.
Bag gloves are generally designed with high density protective padding so sizing focuses on ensuring a correct fit. For most bag gloves, such as our XRT-220S Ultimate Bag Gloves, the size you choose will depend upon the measurements of your hand. Using a tape measure, record the circumference of your hand by measuring your knuckles around the widest part of your dominant hand, without any hand wraps worn.
Next, you’ll need to record your hand length. The best way to get an accurate measurement is to apply the tape measure from your fingertip to the base of your wrist, as can be seen in the image above. With these measurements, you can match up your hand circumference with the manufacturer's size chart, which will look similar to the table below.
If your measurements fall in between sizes or one is bigger than the other then we’d recommend going for the larger glove size. By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to select a glove that will help you raise your training game.
Sizing For Sparring Gloves
As you elevate your training into the ring, having the right gloves becomes even more important. When training with a sparring partner, safety is your number one priority, and having gloves that fit properly and are sufficiently padded is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your partner.
To ensure the appropriate level of protection, sparring glove sizing is based on the weight of the boxer so you should measure your weight and check the manufacturer’s size chart. Sometimes other measurements will be given too but these should only be used to ensure fitting in case you need to size up. If you are a heavy hitter and near a weight boundary, you may want to err on the side of caution and go with the heavier, more protective size.
Sparring gloves start at 12oz, increasing in increments of two, up to 18oz, with 16oz being the most common.
Phenom sparring gloves are ergonomically designed with a compact hand compartment providing an almost custom feeling fit and excellent wrist support.
Sizing For Fight Gloves
Fight gloves come in two different sizes, 8oz and 10oz, and the size you require is governed by the sanctioning body based on your body weight. If your body weight is up to 67kg, or 147lbs (welterweight), then an 8oz fight glove is for you. If your body weight is over 67kg, or 147lbs, then a 10oz fight glove is the one you need.
When you’re fighting competitively, it’s even more important to find gloves that provide the perfect fit, as incorrectly fitting gloves that pinch or jam the thumb could cause discomfort or even injury during the fight.
Phenom fight gloves are ergonomically designed with a deep finger compartment and specially tapered thumb, which allows for a more natural fist position.
Sizing For Success
Ensuring you have the correct size gloves can make the difference between a win or a loss in the ring, as well as keeping you safe and protected wherever you’re throwing your punches. Following these simple tips will help choose the right glove size for you, whatever the boxing task you’re attempting to tackle.
]]>So which gloves should you use for training? In this guide, we make it easy, and show you exactly which gloves are best suited to each stage of training.
Bag Gloves
As with all of the gloves in this guide, thankfully the name we use to describe them makes many of the variations quite self explanatory. However there’s more than meets the eye. Bag gloves and bag mitts have been specifically designed to be used with punch bags while training. The key difference between these and sparring gloves is that they only protect your hands, offering no protection towards your opponent. That’s why bag gloves should be used solely for bag and pad work, and not for sparring, as you could injure anyone in the path of your glove.
Bag gloves are constructed using high density foams to provide high levels of protection, but this can sometimes reduce feedback. They typically feature a hook and loop closure for the ease of fastening. Bag mitts are designed to help you focus on correct punching technique and accuracy while improving hand strength. They provide essential protection whilst giving you a bare knuckle feeling.
But what if you want to train with more than a punch bag?
Sparring Gloves
Sparring gloves are what you’ll be looking for if you’re starting to spend more time training with a sparring partner. The aim of sparring is to improve your performance and not to knock out your partner. Sparring gloves are specifically designed with softer more cushioned padding, which ensures the highest level of protection from injury for you and your sparring partner. Sparring gloves are available in a variety of weights, however, depending on your bodyweight, you should only really be using these at 14oz or above.
But what if you want a pair of gloves that can be used for sparring or bag work
Training Gloves
Training gloves are suitable for training with bags/pads or a sparring partner. The padding is dense enough to use on heavy bags, but also offer sufficient cushioning for sparring. They’re a good option if you’re undecided between sparring and bag work or only do a little of both. However extensive usage of these on heavy bags is not recommended as it will roughen the outer surface and over time reduce the softness of the padding.
They’re made to provide protection to both the user and someone on the opposite side of your glove, with padding for the hands and the knuckles, as well as added wrist support.
Ready to take that next step up, you’ll need the right gloves for the task.
Fight Gloves
While made to give you a competitive edge, fight gloves are also great for pre-fight training. When you’re prepping for competition with your coach, you’ll get the greatest benefit by building up more time with exactly the same gear you’ll use when it really counts. Every glove feels different, and getting as much experience as possible with a fighting glove will help you when you’re squaring up to an opponent.
We also have a specially designed XDT glove for pre-fight training, with the same fit and feel of our fight glove but with enhanced durability and protection.
Time To Get Training
Now you know the differences between the various types of gloves, you’ll be able to get the right gloves for the right training task, helping you reach the top of your game. Be sure to check out our full collection]]>