Sports
Related: About this forumFrom "Hurricane" Carter .....
I came across this from 49 years ago this morning, and thought some of the DU sports folks might find it interesting.
Rubin Hurricane Carter; letter to me; September 27, 1973.
I meant to tell you that whether or not you are a puncher or a boxer, you had better get into the habit of tucking your chin into your chest. Because from what I could see: it was hanging wide open, my boy, and that aint good. Squat. Get down low. Put your entire weight behind each punch. When you jab -- shift your weight to your left foot -- your right foot is only there to balance you. Whenever you begin your attack, your weight should always be on your front foot. But when you retreat -- always do so in a crouch, with your weight shifted to both of your feet for smoother movements. Never back straight up! Always side-to-side -- always looking for that opening to start your attack again. Remember: the best defense is a helluva offense, and catching your opponent coming into your strength, always results in that man being hurt. Be relaxed -- always think relaxed, and youll never get tired. Stick that jab -- stick that jab-- stick that jab -- stick that jab
.. Until it becomes part of your every move
.. Stick that jab -- stick that jab And youll find that youre doing it and dont even know it. Thats what instincts are all about. Can you dig it? Even as you read this letter, the rhythm should show you what Im talking about -- stick that jab -- stick that jab -- stick that jab!
Docreed2003
(17,812 posts)H2O Man
(75,498 posts)At the time, lots of amateur fighters were trying to copy Ali's style. I can say that while the majority of them got their behinds handed to them, a skinny white kid from a small farm in rural upstate New York was actually the best at it. (grin) But Rubin was rightly concerned that, as I moved up in ranks, I'd pay a price. (I only did one time, when at age 15, I saw a former US Marine on Wide World of Sports in the nationals, and thought, "I'll destroy him!" Though I lasted three rounds when we fought, and put some damage on his face, he definitely won the fight!)
Easterncedar
(3,534 posts)And very interesting on its own. Thanks for sharing that H2O Man.
H2O Man
(75,498 posts)Rubin was a fascinating and unique friend.