Apples and Oranges: Footwork

Freddie Roach’s recent comments regarding the boxing abilities of Fedor demonstrates the ignorance within the boxing community regarding the subtle differences between the two sports. One of the most important aspects of boxing is footwork. While this tenet holds equally great importance in MMA, there are key differences between the two styles. The chief difference is in stance. A MMA stance is wider creating greater balance and lateral movement. This is a necessity due to the increase in ring size, as well as the danger of leg kicks and takedowns.

In boxing footwork is key in taking away a fighters' balance, while cornering them against the ropes. It is of chief importance to maintain one’s footwork mechanics in order to uphold correct punching fundamentals and further one’s cardio. But if a fighter relies too heavily on a pure boxing stance in MMA, he opens himself up to debilitating leg kicks as well as an easy shoot and takedown. That is why a new stance evolved in MMA, with the feet being wider apart.

Roach is right when he states that MMA fighters aren’t that technical. But he is observing these fighters from the viewpoint of technical boxing. This is not on par with an NFL scout saying a college quarterback is not technical with his delivery. It would be the equivalent of a baseball pitching coach critiquing a professional quarterback’s throwing motion.