How I started boxing
I was born and raised in the city of Los Angeles, and so long as I can remember my fascination for boxing began just like it did for other kids born in the 80’s, Rocky movies! There was something magical and inspiring about overcoming an opponent during the brink of defeat and then coming back to win in spectacular fashion. It resonated for a lot of people, not just in an athletic context, but also for life as well. Everyone loves an underdog and/or a comeback story.
I didn’t step into my first boxing gym until I was 19. In June 2004, a friend brought me to a gym called the La Habra Boxing Club which was located in a less-than-perfect neighborhood. It was known as Wayne “The Pocket Rocket” Mccollough’s gym (former world bantamweight champion) and home of Julio Gonzalez (former light heavyweight champion that lost to Roy Jones Jr).
It was here that I met my first trainer, Jerry Sanchez, an old Mexican pro boxer. He saw potential in both me and my younger brother from day one. We were fast learners that were also skinny paperweights with long arms that hit like Mack trucks going 90 miles an hour (a trainer’s dream come true). I had an invincible chin whereas my brother carried a little more power. Jerry became more than a trainer to us, he became a second father. Aside from being known as the only 2 Asian kids in a Mexican gym, Jerry called us “the Bash Brothers.”
Jerry, my first boxing trainer!
Boxing was everything I ever dreamed of and more. I had my own trainer, gloves, mouthpiece, and favorite heavy bag to pound on. There was no greater feeling than to get torn up in a round, have your trainer curse you out in the corner, and then go out and win the final round on pure determination. This was so much better than watching a Rocky movie, I was living it every day.
La Habra Boxing Club
Typical day at the La Habra Boxing Club
For the next 6 months, I trained 5 days a week alongside some of the best boxers in the world. 90% of the gym were competing fighters, amateurs and professionals from the US and Mexico. The only belts that mattered were title belts. I had the toughest training and never paid a dime for it. The fee for training was hard work (and a couple pints of blood here and there).
It was a Mexican gym and everything that was Mexican boxing culture could be found here: Mariachi music in the background, brawling punches in the ring, trademark Mexican body shots, and of course, non-stop Spanish. Fighters from all over the world came by for world class sparring. Kids not even tall enough to ride roller coasters bobbed and weaved like miniature Mike Tyson’s. Fighters brought their entire families to the gym, training harder when more people were watching. Even gangsters from the local neighborhood joined the party to test their street skills. Anybody that wanted to fight was given gloves, headgear, and even a “community mouthpiece”(gross, I know, but I’ve used it too when I forgot mine at home). Local newspapers and media sites praised LA Habra’s sparring sessions as the best “free boxing shows” you could find anywhere in Southern California.
La Habra was the kind of fighting gym that intimidated grown men. My friend Dave quit boxing when he saw a 3 year old hitting the speed bag from the top of an upside down garbage can. Fighters feared their trainers more than their opponents. Fathers berated their sons for losing sparring matches. On any given day, you might be adjusted by 3 different trainers on your technique, spar guys you’ve never met before, and still work a full session on mitts and bags. My brother’s nose bled every single day of training. I understood this to be the life of a pugilist.
Nonstop Boxing Training!
Our gym featured nearly an unlimited number of trainers and sparring partners, something I took for granted. There were days when I came in tired and not wanting to step in the ring, but Jerry always had a way of convincing us to spar. My brother was once knocked out by a girl (who terrorized her division in the amateurs). As he washed the blood off his face, two other boys embraced him in group therapy, retelling their stories of how they too were embarrassingly knocked out by Bianca the “Boy Killer”. I too, was stopped twice by my friend Mike. I ran out of gas and ate so many punches Jerry stepped in to save me. With everyone congratulating my courage, you might have thought I won the match. Everybody loved the way I fought and I would do it all over again for them if I could.
Some of the best boxers I saw during my time here:
- Julio Gonzalez (former light heavyweight champion)
- Librado Andrade (at the time, undefeated contender for super middleweight title)
- Enrique Ornelas (Librado’s younger brother undefeated at the time, sparring partner for Shane Mosley)
- Alfonso Gomez (known for “The Contender” show and Cotto/Gatti fights)
- Jose Armando Santa Cruz (former lightweight champion)
- Mikkel Kessler & Danny Green preparing for their fights
- Countless amateur/professional prospects from around the world
- Big name fighters like Shane Mosley came here for sparring
Since La Habra, I’ve trained at a handful of other gyms to learn new techniques and volunteering for sparring sessions if everyone seemed friendly enough. I spent a few weeks at a gym in Canada where I saw some international-level amateurs. And then there was also the time I spent at Wildcard Boxing Gym where I saw Manny Pacquiao and dozens of other pro-boxers working out.
One of boxing’s greatest trainers – Freddie Roach
After training with Mr. “Cool” Vince Phillips – former 140lb champ!
My Fighting Record (or lack thereof) is 0-1
I might have sparred a hundred amateur fighters but I never went amateur boxing myself. I had plenty of competition at my gym. Many of the Mexican trainers groomed their kids to go straight into the pros. They didn’t believe in fighting for free. Amateur boxing was merely free practice for the pros or a chance at fame in the Olympics.
Good right hand!
I ended up not going towards either route. I stopped training at the La Habra boxing club to focus on my other priorities in life. Being a busy college student made it hard to drive 90 minutes through traffic every day just to get a free facial reconstruction. Other than accepting backyard challenges and hitting the bags, I was no longer officially boxing. Boxing fell further down my list of priorities when I started my own IT company.
In 2007, I tried out for the university boxing team at my college, California State University, Northridge (CSUN) and made the team but decided to focus on my academics instead. In 2009, I came back from a 3-month trip in Europe and took a last minute smoker fight on less than 2 weeks notice. It was a “Friday Night Fights” event where I fought an amateur from Wildcard Boxing Gym who outweighed me by 15 pounds. I lost a close decision but enjoyed the experience. The guy I fought would later go on to win the Golden Gloves.
The Beginning of ExpertBoxing
I stayed connected to the sport, watching every notable fight and teaching dozens of friends and inspiring pugilists how to box. In fear of forgetting the great knowledge my trainers had passed down to me, I started ExpertBoxing.com in 2008. I posted boxing tips on my website with the sole purpose of making sure they would never be forgotten. I never expected ExpertBoxing to become anything. I wanted it be my own hard-earned archive of knowledge, no matter how little it was.
I came home from a Europe tour in 2009 to an inbox full of questions and compliments from readers around the world. It was flattering to hear compliments on my site but how the heck was I going to answer their questions and write more articles when I didn’t even train anymore?
The answer came in 2009 when I met Steve, an old boxer/trainer from Boston. Steve ran a private gym in Los Angeles that had no name and charged no fee. Steve’s underground gym was already popular with the local pro’s and amateurs as an alternative to overcrowded combat facilities. Some fighters came here for sparring because they got tired of waiting for the ring at their gym. The other visitors were older men and off-season fighters who came to stay in shape. Trainers brought their beginners and injured athletes because they liked the relaxed atmosphere. Kickboxers and MMA fighters came by to work on their boxing. Being a part-time boxer, I fit in naturally. Steve took a liking to my “technical-but-light” sparring attitude and gave me keys to the gym. This new underground gym, a gym made up of athletes from all over Los Angeles, became my second home.
Our not-so-secret gym
I started to appreciate boxing as an art and not just a sport. I asked sparring partners to tone down the pace, so I could learn the real intricacies and nuances of boxing. I showed the same courtesy by going easy on all the beginners, earning the respect of their trainers. I found that trainers were more likely to give you pointers when they know you won’t use it to destroy their fighter. Being respectful opened the way for me to learn from so many trainers and athletes.
I STILL train here every week, sharing my passion for boxing with others as I learn from fighters more experienced than myself. I like to compare myself to James Toney in that all I do is show up, fight, and go home. I’ll spar as many people as I can, discuss a few pointers along the way, and then run home to break down movements and details while sharing my techniques online.
Ironically, not having to fight for medals and prize money made me a better fighter. I was free to work on any technique I wanted, not just “winning techniques”. I picked up new boxing styles and got away with mistakes normal trainers would never allow. Most important of all, I enjoyed boxing more than ever because I had no pressure to perform to anybody’s standards. I don’t really care for training or competing. I don’t want to spend hundreds of hours training for just a 9-minute fight. I’m not here to become the push-up champion of the world. I just love fighting and the art of boxing itself.
To all the trainers that have ever worked with me: Jerry, David, Jorge, Rick, Steve, Erick, Bob, Jose, Vince…there’s too many to list. THANK YOU ALL!
Currently Working as a Trainer
Coaching for my friend and fighter, Van
I work with a lot of beginners every week sharing what I know and picking up what I can from other trainers. Right now, I’m coaching several amateur fighters which feels like a part-time job in itself. It’s a big responsibility having to come up with specialized workouts and drills for each fighter. You have to watch them carefully to see what advantages you can pick out and what bad habits might potentially cost them down the line. Many fighters also like to think too much so I have to be there to calm their thoughts or talk to them and keep them from over-analyzing things. What makes it all worthwhile is seeing the joy on their faces after the end of the fight. Every victory feels like a championship when you put in the work.
The Future of ExpertBoxing
It’s still not over. The site has grown from 10 visitors a day to 20,000 visitors a day from around the world. Over 250,000 unique visitors a month from over 30 different countries. The Youtube channel has over 100,000 subscribers with over 1-MILLION minutes watched every month. Content now available in many other languages such as: Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, French, and more. And there is still so much more to come.
I’m proud of what I’ve done for the sport. I’m honored by the thousands of fan mail from fighters, coaches, and random people who don’t even box! I thank all the coaches, fighters, and friends along the way who’ve helped me expose the beautiful sport boxing to people all over the world, showing the true art, it’s technical genius and inner courage. People who otherwise would have never stepped into a gym or understood boxing now follow ExpertBoxing online, on Youtube, on Facebook, on their iPhones, everywhere site. I want exposure for the sport, excitement for the fights, and an everlasting tradition of success for boxing. I couldn’t feel any luckier being able to earn a living doing what I love.
Life Outside of Boxing
When I’m not in the boxing gym, I’m a huge nerd spending hours on the computer watching youtube videos and randomly surfing the web. I enjoy the outdoors, hiking and going on road trips. Dancing tango is my second passion. I love traveling the world, visiting new places and finding new ways to live life to the fullest.
I’m probably on the dance floor if I’m not in the gym or by the computer.
My brother Brian Nguyen, the tango champion, and one of my biggest inspirations in life and biggest support for ExpertBoxing.
Un jour, je vais habiter en France!
Skateboarding, like boxing, is 100% mental, 100% physical.
Always living life on the edge.
Very good article about yourself. Very clean and flowing article like all of your articles. I understand your boxing view, when your hobby become your job sometimes its lost the enjoyment and excitement. Without pressure of anything you can be totaly free and do what you want with it, try new things etc. and that gives a lot of perspective about the subject and making improvement.
By the way you look very young according to your age bro 🙂
I’ve got those Asian genes keeping me young forever! I was born in 84, but I’ll never look my age.
Hey Johnny, my name is Arturo Ramos III. I own/operate Ramos Boxing Team out of San Antonio. I’d just like to let you know that I will be posting links to your pages on my site, ramosboxing.com Let me know if this is ok if not I can remove them. I was an amateur boxer from 1987 until 1995, professional from 95-00 and have been coaching since 96. I find some of your articles very accurate and in line with my way of thinking of the sport. It’s good to find the younger generation out there with some common boxing sense. Keep spreading truth! with Ramos Boxing – Arturo Ramos III
Arturo, please feel free to share my articles on your website. It is fine as long as you are giving full credit with a link to ExpertBoxing. Thank you for the kind words and much respect to you, coach!
hello my name is jordy and i am an amature boxer i need to get a right diet plan for me and i have been looking for someone to get me one together, i wonder if you can help me ? im 15 and weight 57kg i would like to gain a little bit of weight because i feel quite small to most of my friends. thanks
wow i like it is that boxing trellising
Would be great to have you Gil…..doors are always open.
Mr. Ramos,
I visited your site and if I am ever in San Antonio, It would be an honor to train at your gym and meet your fighters. I have family in Houston, so I try to make it down that way at least once a year.
hey can I get your email address so I can talk to you
Look on the contacts page. Link at the very bottom of the site.
Hey johnny n. i wanted to know if you personally train fighters. please email me at [email protected] please even if its a no.
Please contact me through my email. (The contact link is at the bottom of my website.)
You have great articles!
I am definitely going to read them for hours everyday.
I have a huge interest in boxing, after Muhammad Ali died I had a moment of grief
(ACTUALLY 2 WEEKS OF SORROW AND WATCHING MEMORIALS AND TRIBUTE VIDEOS OF HIS MOMENTS WITHOUT WATCHING ANY OTHER SPORTSMAN)
But I continued to box and finding this website yesterday has really made me motivated and ready for sport in college and the boxing competitions there! I WILL SHOW YOU AND THEM HOW GREAT I AM!
Not fair.
its not too late i was born in 85started in the boxing gym aged 11 but never competed i went bk 2 years ago and have had just under 40 amateur fights only lost 5 give it a go ya only live once . so happy i went bk think i would have regreted it for the rest of my life
Interesting story dude.
Thanks for some off the boxing tips.
You should get some video tutorials or something.
As an Asian myself, you look your age.
My goals in boxing are very similar to yours. I don’t want to become world champ but I love it as an art-form. Would you mind emailing me the name of the gym in LA? I live in Norwalk. I’d love to check it out. I checked out La Habra Boxing but it seems that they’re more interested in training amateur-pro fighters.
Sent you an email.
Hi my name is Adrian, I was wondering if you could write an article on what works in a street fight (bare knuckle) and what changes you need to make as opposed to in a ring with gloves on, for example I’ve never seen a boxer jab in a street fight, though my experience isn’t too extensive:), also what to do against a heavier opponent in a fight like this. I hope its OK to ask this here………
Hey Adrian. If you wanna learn how to street fight (I hope just for the purposes of self-defense), you should check out Krav-Maga. These guys are not about competition and all about self-defense. They would simulate real-life situations like sparring 2 on 1 and all out bar brawl (obviously while wearing protective gear). Hope this helps
Hi Johnny,
Great website dude! I have been a boxing fan since a kid and I love it even more passionately today. I have never been formally taught to box, but I try to pick up whatever I can from the web and from watching the pros do it. Being a 30 yr old guy, I find it intimidating at the overcrowded boxing gyms (with kids and teens everywhere), as you can imagine, so if I got a chance to visit the gym in L.A. I would be stoked. Could you please send me the info?
My goal is to learn as much as I can about this sport I love so that I could teach everything I know to my son. He is 7 yrs old at this time.
Thanks bro, greatly appreciated!
Hey Johnny,
Great article about yourself. I’ve recently started white collar boxing and been reading every article I can on your website. Nothing could have prepared me for my first sparring session yesterday though. Was so overwhelming but after reading your article on slipping, think I might be ready for that next session. Would be good if you could feature some ‘female specific’ articles? I’m not sure if women even have a different fighting style, but would be interesting to know nonetheless. Cheers
Eva, I’m proud of you for getting in there! Some female boxing articles would be great. Right off the bat, I can already think of specific things that female boxers do. They definitely fight differently, that’s for sure. Let me know how you do on your next sparring session.
On a side note, I randomly look up emails of my readers and I think we have a mutual friend! How random.
Hi Johnny! That is indeed random…who is this mutual friend?! Sparring sessions have gotten better….and now my first fight looms ahead in 2 days!!!! Looking forward to some female centric articles, and really enjoyed your latest article on the shoulder rolling. Will come in use for the fight!!!
Veronica P. would be the mutual friend. Wow, I wish you the best of luck in your fight. I hope you shoulder roll the hell out of your opponent. Post a video, Eva!
Hi Johnny,
your site is a real goldmine! so many so well written things. i have been reading it for months now. thank you so much for sharing all your precious experience.
like Eva, i am also a female boxer and would just love to hear about how you see the difference between female and male boxing ( be it pro, amateur or just for the love of the sport ). cheers
Fought my second ameture fight yesterday and lost i was scared and told my trainer i dont want to do this before the fight. They changed the rounds to one min before i went in and i was not ready to move that fast 165 female novice. Your article…..every damn thing i was thinking! Wish you lived in my house to give me minute reminders!
I’m proud of you, Liz. Keep doing what you’re doing…and yes, let me know when you have an open room. 🙂
Johnny , since I found your website I have been addicted to reading your very articulate articles.your insight is very good and would enjoy sparring with u someday knowing I will learn a lot from you. I currently go to a gym in Pomona CA called elite boxing academy and it’s my first gym..my trainers younger than me have achived some success. Byron Gonzalez 17, Alex “the great” Flores 21 and juan at 19..I am 23 and just began going to the gym about 3 months ago..sparring with these guys and other fighters at the gym has been amazing and an honor .they are all very good fighters but I would also like to work with someone like yourself because my goals and love for the sweet science is similar to yours
Hi Dan,
It’d be an honor to fight my own readers, hahahah. It sounds like you’re in great company. If you ever come out to LA, let me know.
Johnny, I was actually going to make a trip to redondo beach to meet Mr kazumichi and purchase headgear this weekend, hopefully you are at the gym so I can meet u
I won’t be in this boxing gym this weekend but there’s a Sunday martial arts group thing I wanted to check out. I don’t know if you’re into that scene.
I’m interested, tomorrow?
Hey Johnny,
My heart jumped when you mentioned that you joined the team at CSUN. That’s the same University i go to now!!! I’m a freshman, and i fell in love with boxing just as you did. I’m not in shape, but i’m slowly getting into the swing of things.
I wanted to know, do you still attend CSUN? And if so, do you ever plan on boxing for the school again?
Hi Anthony,
I graduated from CSUN 3 years ago so I’m probably not eligible to compete for them anymore. I still live in the nearby neighborhood right now. You should join the team and if you do meet a guy named Marc Castillo, he’s my good friend of mine/sparring partner.
I was curious, is your underground facility easy to reach from LA?
Our gym is definitely accessible from LA.
Wow hell of a journey this website is great I’m a beginning boxer do any advice from real competitors is gold 2 me. Nice with with this website, real easy to navigate thru & solid tips & tutorials.
Thank you, Alex.
Hey John,
I wanna try boxing but I’m overweight, out of shape, and kinda stocky. Is boxing a good thing to jump right into or should i do something else first? I’ve wrestled in the past, and was wondering how Boxing conditioning wise compares to wrestling.
Peter, boxing is fun and definitely worth doing. I can’t tell you how the conditioning compares because it’s like asking me, “What’s more tiring, wrestling or basketball?” Well, they’re two entirely different sports and then energy you spend depends on your style of movement. I’m sure within wrestling itself, there are many different styles that would affect your conditioning.
One thing I do notice is that wrestling has a lot of contact where you’re used to being able to touch your opponent and exert force on him. At the higher levels of boxing, it’s not common for boxers to touch each other. Both are slippery and constantly moving to avoid all contact. For a stocky guy as yourself, you may find it frustrating and very tiring to try and get a hold of a guy as you swing at the air. Either way, it’s a new challenge, new skills, and new fun. Do it, you might discover you’re more natural at boxing than wrestling.
Thanks so much for your sharing! I came across your site as I was surfing the web looking for more information on foods I should be eating as I train (for fun)…I started boxing about 2 months ago, no experience, no prior training…pretty much just signed up for 12 PT sessions on a whim (and am now working out on my own and taking classes when I can). I am F, 5’6 and about 150 pounds…not in tip-top shape, but pretty content with my body, and am slowly and definitely see my body changing. More than anything I started boxing to challenge myself, test my strength, and see how far I could take this…so in a nutshell that’s a bit of background.
The gym I work out at is great – a lot of great & helpful trainers who treat you like family so I’m thankful for that…but at the same time, it is pretty intimidating because I want to get better and am at a point where I feel like I don’t know how to go beyond where I have.
I was hoping you could offer me some words of advice? After grad-school and work, I’d like to think of boxing as a new priority in my life, but I’d like to also feel more confident that I am in the right place. I was also wondering – for strength in m shoulders/muscles, is there anything I can do to feel like I am not tiring out as I work out? After a short while my muscles start to feel really tired and I’d like to push myself, but sometimes give up…(for ex: high/low blank, pushups, rapid fire on the heavy bag)…
Thanks for letting me share these words. Thanks again for offering this great resource! Sorry for the long comment & questions ( I got excited haha)
Arti, boxing after grad school?! You’re my inspiration now. The best exercise for shoulder muscles is the speed bag. As for getting better, keep trying new things and don’t be so goal oriented. Get yourself in the gym even on days that you feel like crap. Get in there and make it a habit to have lazy days. Go to the gym every now and then and force yourself to do a workout you’ve never done before. With time, at your rate, you’ll be amazing. You’re better than you think and trust that your trainers are moving you along at the perfect rate. Oh yeah, learn how to breathe. Your muscles can get tired but as long as you can keep breathing properly, you are not lost yet!
hey Johnny thank you for the whole website ,its realy helpful .. am 25 years old and am training sice 11 months now..how to be a good femal boxer ?! and my componant is a german girl who is taller and stronger than me.. im my society Boxing for a girl like me is a crime because they think that i will lose my feminine side and boxing is for men only.
leena, check out the articles around here and write comments on articles where you need a bit more help. I’m proud of you for boxing even when it feels wrong in your country. Although brutal, it’s such an empowering sport. Good luck in your next fight.
Johnny,
I discovered your site by mere accident while searching for something else. I’m 47 and would like to do some bagwork, shadowboxing along with my BW workouts. I did some kickboxing and boxing training back in the 90s, but as the adage goes, “life got in the way”. Nonetheless, I have never allowed myself to get out of shape, ever. I still do some form of bodyweight strength and conditioning 4 times a week. Now, my diet isn’t picture perfect and I tie a few beers on a week. However, no overindulgence, ever.
While I have always been a fan of boxing, like you, I simply enjoy the training. It’s one of those sports where if one can or has no interest in competing lke you or I, you can still participate in the training aspects. Few things compare to the energy of a boxing gym. Even going in an empty one is inspiring.
I appreciate your straightforward way of teaching and sharing your knowledge. Thanks again.
Gil
Gil, I’m curious to hear how you stumbled upon this site. Your sentence about the energy of an empty boxing gym stopped me in my tracks. It’s completely true and something I’ve never consciously realized until now. Thank you so much for that.
I always wondered about you Johnny…your expertise and insight in boxing, your website – your a cool dude! I say this also because we have similar interests ha ha! Seriously, we do, living life to the fullest is my creed as well, along with being happy in life and believing in yourself to meet challenges. I also don’t like to “compete” in boxing. I started as an amateur, but the first times a sparred rough I remember how I hated feeling the crack of my opponents face or body on my fist (or that feeling I can’t describe when you really hurt somebody). I don’t believe in that type of sparing unless your a pro getting ready or a serious amateur with the aspirations to be a pro. I learned it takes a certain type of guy to be a pro – and I’m not it (I’m sure you know too). But still, boxing is beautiful, and its the best work out in the world to get optimum condition from your body (strength, speed, stamina, coordination…). I train in a fairly locally known boxing in gym Mia FL – tropical park. I read your sight every chance I get hoping for a new article from you – it’s so interesting and cool to me. Thanks!!!
Thanks for the love, Alejandro! Life is always good for us serious non-pro boxers. Live it up.
I also train at tropical park lol small world
i might have write this question to you before johnny but i forgot to look were to find it but just to double check on my question: what do you think that a up and coming boxer should be thinking about or considering whilest rising threw threw the ranks concerning the business aspects of boxing like promotion, management, the money making aspects of the sport. would you like to write a artical about this? and even still what do you think a boxer should think about or keep in mind considering the aspect of financhial matters? Hire a board of financhial advisers, open his on private company, or what? hope to here from you soon.
hi gonny ask me your face book Adrea
my weight is 46kg.but i want 50kg.how to gain weight faster??
It’s not easy to gain lean muscle weight for boxing, and especially not easy to do it fast. You can do strength building exercises.
Awesome, this gives me hope, I had been doing the martial arts previously for 5 years before joining my local Boxing club at the age of 19. I’m looking forward to competing one day, providing fate allows it and whether or not I overcome my injuries.
Very inspiring article Johnny. Considering your last name I would guess that your ethnicity is Vietnamese which is the same as mine, haha. Its great to know that someone with the same ethnicity loves this sport much more than I do. Well anyways, I first off started reading your articles last year after looking up boxing sites and getting into the sport, which really started to help me grow a liking to boxing more and more. Its really inspiring to hear that you didn’t have to become a world champ or commit endless hours into boxing to really love the sport. I’m about 18 right now and I use to live around Northridge in Cali which is around your area. Right now I’m looking to one day possibly train at a boxing gym. In all, Im just looking to enjoy the sport as much as I can.
quite remarkable article about your persona. I’ve started boxing at a relative old age, and your story is very inspiring to keep me going.
I was also wondering what is your fight weight, and your opinion on ideal weight according to height as a role in the fighter’s style. I’ve noticed faster boxers try to keep a BMI below 23, while heavy punchers try to keep a BMI of 24 or higher.
I range from 140-150. Every boxer will try to keep his weight as lean as possible. Part of your style is how your body lets you move and the way you perceive your opponent’s movements. To some degree, you have to respect the relationship of your height/weight in relation to your opponent’s, but I wouldn’t say that it complete overrides your fighting style.
As for BMI, I don’t agree with your observation. There are many many powerful punchers with low BMI’s so it doesn’t make sense to me. Boxers as a whole, carry incredibly low BMI during their fights. As for being fast, there are also fast boxers with higher BMI’s.
if you can see my email shoot me an email. i admire your passion and i want to share some fights with you that i think will broaden your horizon
Hi, Johnny! I am 25 years old and I have just started this sport, do, you think it’s too late for me to start now! What do you think, about it???
It’s never too late.
Thanks man! I appreciate it ! ( I love the way Stallone says that in his movies)
Even I’m a die hard Stallone fan. I am getting to learn a lot from this site. I’ll message you any doubts related to boxing. Take care man!
Bro i wanna know that how ur boxing is going on now cuz now m also 25 now m starting so
HI there i learnt that you’re quite an expert in boxing.
How can i plan my natural exercises to build punching power?
Do i have to plan my routine in a way like Mike Tyson
“Tyson did 10 quick circuits, each circuit consisting of: 200 sit-ups, then 25-40 dips, then 50 press-ups, then 25-40 dips, then 50 shrugs, followed by 10 mins of neck work on the floor. ”
Lets say if i were to do these 10 circuits a day, can i do them everyday from Mon to friday and then rest on weekends?
But for sure i wont be able to do as much. I probably cut down to 25 sit ups, 20 dips, 20 push ups, 20 dips, 3 mins of skipping as one circuit. And probably do that for 5 circuits?
wow…this is an amazing website! like someone else mentioned it…very clean article about yourself. i love boxing! even though ive never tried it before…but i would love to! in fact…i really want to! i just dont know hot to start…i dont have gloves, shoes, boxing shorts, nothing! i dont even know where to start! i dont have money to go to a gym. i think there arent any boxing gyms around here anyway…well, im going straight to the point…can u give me any tips on how to start or what to do??? id really appreciate it if u could help me out by giving me some advice on wat to do…by the way…im 24 almost 25…is it too late for me to start boxing??? please reply!! thank u in advance!
Read the whole site. And if you’re serious about learning fast, check out my book! Good luck Jaguar.
Amazing story Johnny. How tall are you? and what’s been the most challenging match you’ve had demanding to solve a height difference situation?
THanks for your valuable information!
I’m 5’7″. I’ve had a billion tough matches of all shapes and sizes. Skilled opponents give me the most problems.
Just dropping by to thank you for the website! I’ve been following this website before I boxed, and now I spar on a regular basis. This site has been an excellent resource for me and an inspiration. I also would like to recommend that you add a glossary of terms to the website. It would be a great addition to the site and would help boxers of all experience levels.
Hey Johnny,
Look at this guy’s site he is a charalatan from India who is a self proclaimed mma coach and the only kickboxing world champion of India His name is Daniel Isaac. he forgot to give you credit.
Btw you rock!!!
regards
Thanks for telling me, Riot.
Hey Johnny, I enjoy your articles and I think they are very intelligent. I think it makes boxing seem more like a science than a chicken fight. Anyway, I’m an amateur MMA fighter (just 3-0 so far) and I consider my style to be boxing/wrestling. I would really love it if you can watch my recent fight (only 3min long) and let me know what I could work on and could’ve done better. http://youtu.be/9rbGHX55qEM (im black shorts)
Really nice work, Lucas. Good power and foot movement. I’m a little weary of adjusting what you do because you’re doing MMA which requires different tactics in controlling the space.
The biggest adjustment I would make is to loosen up. Your body looks way too top heavy. There is so much weight in your shoulders that you have to load up your arms every time you punch. It’d be better if you can figure out a way to drop the weight into your legs so that your arms can lighten up. You’ll be able to punch faster (since all the weight is in the lower body, not upper body) and also be more powerful (since the power is generated from legs and not upper body).
I would also work on sneaking into range. You seem to lunge in from awfully far back. See if you can walk in just a few inches closer before striking. It makes a world of difference. Every little inch your opponent lets you get closer makes your strike a split second faster.
Good luck, man. I really enjoyed the fight and nice work on the KO!
thanks! I really appreciate the input!
and btw. Im the President of the Texas A&M MMA club (beginner level club) and i’ve been sharing some of your articles to my students. They, as myself, appreciate the articles!
That’s awesome, Lucas! Keep me posted on your fights & fighters.
Hi Johnny, I must say I was a bit skeptical when I came upon your site. But wow, you’re knowledge is impressive–and SOUND. Lol. Reading through some of your postings you sound like a great guy, and athlete.
I’m a former fighter out of Washington DC and it was a nice surprise to see another Viet this engaged in boxing. I used to converse with Dat Nguyen via email (he’ll be fighting my boy Gary Russell), and Sang Nguyen, the Spanish lightweight champ who used to fight in Philly on occasions.
I’m training a boxing team in Portland, Oregon at this time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nb5AAXljxdw&context=C4639eeeADvjVQa1PpcFN5fzZz0Plc30LSQ0fgXwlV42a6CVdIdzI=
Keep up the good work. Too much bad knowledge being spread out there!
Nice video, Duc! Good coaching on there, I agreed with your tactics too. It’s awesome you know Gary Russell; I like his style.
sorry wrong reply opps lol it was meant for Duc
Well hey I am vietnamese too and i just started boxing. And just so you know no asian people in my class at all lol
Well actually I am vietnamese too. There is actually no Asian in where I am train at. I feel really lost in there haha. But they have a nice enviroment too
Hello mate
I’m a subscriber to your website and I think your articles are great, so just want to say thanks first of all. I’m a southpaw boxer but due to circumstances I’m sparring a lot with kickboxers. I don’t want to change my style to kickboxing because I think boxing is more effective, but I have great difficulty getting into range against kickboxers who kick your legs and body so you can’t get into rhythm with the jab.
Do you have any boxing techniques/strategies that would be effective against a kickboxer?
I did a sparring video with a kickboxer to illustrate the difficulties I have, if you could take a minute or two to have a look it would be a great help:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53NCHFDMYfE
Thanks
Matt
Matt, I’m not a kickboxer so I refuse to give tips on that. Please find someone more qualified who can help you. From what I see: it looks like you stand so wide and off-balance that you’re not as mobile as he is. Also know that if you stand too wide, it will be harder to lift one leg (especially for kicking or moving).
Just wanted to say its great to read a bit about you. I got my first punchbag for my 5th birthday but never really thought about taking it up again till I was about 24. I went to a couple of gyms and have now found one that I like with a lot of other female boxers. I really love your site, I’ve got a bag in my bedroom and it just inspires me to get off my desk chair and practice every time I read your articles. Good for keeping the blood flowing to my brain when I’m writing essays!
Thanks man.
I do the same thing, Ellie. Jumping off my chair to shadowbox during long writing sessions.
thanks for your comment, but I just wanted an opinion on my boxing style in its own right. I made another vid of me sparring, starting from 00:56. I’m the southpaw, am I still leaning back too much?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOHkgnTQr1I
hey can u email me i want to show u the video of me sparring and tell me what you think
if u made programming tutorials i wouldve learned it in a week 🙂
theyr clean and complete . ty
Awesome ….this one surely going to help me in my training..:D
Hey Johnny, love your blog, it gives me a lot of insight on the mental aspects of boxing. Im currently in the LA area, I was hoping we could link up, maybe i could check out your gym, get some sparring, and get some pointers.
Hi Luc, I’m in the progress of setting up some boxing workshops for people to come and learn advanced boxing techniques at an affordable rate. Aside from that, my focus is on training with my friends and coaching only the competing guys. The guys usually go to other gyms for sparring though.
alright.. let me know if you ever need some fresh sparring partners, ill be in the SoCal area for the rest of the summer, headed back up to San Jose this Fall
Hey Johnny,nice article you’ve got over here……
But i would like to know one thing that besides being a boxer,are you a martial artist also,I mean can you perform martial arts moves?
No, I don’t know any traditional martial arts. I do know some Brazilian jiu-jitsu and aikido but only at a basic level.
Hi, I’m pretty young (11 years old) and I want to learn to be a great female boxer. I know I’m kind of young, but I want to become stronger, overcome my fear of getting in a street fight, and get to the fullest of my great fighting genes. My dad has extreme knockout power and my mom as well. I need to know some technique, diet, and a good way to work out and stay in shape.
Thanks so much
sir iam a begineer what should be the basics i should follow…..to train i have no trainer plz help
Johnny,
Hello from Toronto, Canada…I was wondering which Gym you went when you stayed here? I’m presently looking for a new place to train/spar, one that will work with me on my technique.
also quick question…will shadowboxing everyday help my technique and my overall boxing considerably while I’m not sparring, or don’t have the time to spar consistently.
Yes, shadowboxing is one of the most important exercises. Make sure you try new things, doing the same things day after day won’t improve you by very much.
Well I’m 16 year old been boxing for a while I have 3/3 wins and I’m the best in my weight in my city 56 kg … The problem is the coach here is very expensive I can’t afford him I live in 3rd world country Family is not rich either can you give me work out routine etc and excercises give me twice as much as normal boxers do I wanna be the best …
BRO, i love your website.
It’s THEE best boxing website with everything you need to learn and more. Very helpful advice and im glad to see there’s someone out there who see’s boxing as an art and not a sport.
I’ve visited other websites as well, and none of them match expertboxing at all.
I love and practice martial arts like Muay thai / muay boran, ninjutsu, hapkido and taekwondo, sanshou / sanda, and i only got into boxing late, like 2-3 months ago. I also love everything about boxing, the training the motivation, etc some may see it as boring punches and not as exciting as taekwondo or muay thai etc but they’re missing the artistic beauty of it, floyd mayweather jr. is a great example of showcasing the art eh ?
You and him are very inspiring and motivational for boxing.
How long have you been skateboarding for bro ?
also just need small advice, i don’t attend any gym but i train and condition at home. All i have is space for doing crunches n exercise etc and shadow boxing, a punch bag, and jump rope. That’s all i need right ? for home training. I learn and practice proper technique through the everlast boxing dvd by michael olajide and specially more from your website, going to order your dvd’s soon too bro.
I’m not in any gym because i feel there’s no true boxing gyms around anymore since UFC came along, everything is mma this n that and they only teach you the basics, not everything so i train at home, if i could i’d love to train with you.
Keep those gloves up n head movin , keep boxing bro.
Greetings from the Philippines! I’ve started boxing early this year (around March) but wasn’t so keen on aiming to perfect my techniques. When I started, the only thing I’ve got in my mind was to lose weight and get a decent body. It wasn’t until I’ve started sparring with one of our trainers that I’ve been curious enough to search the web for more tips. Lo and behold, I’ve stumbled onto your website! I want you to know that your articles give me great inspiration on boxing. Your tips and advices work, too! I’m really glad that I’ve discovered your site! Thanks so much and keep writing and boxing! ^^
When you said you accepted back yard challenges, what do you mean?
he means what it says “Backyard challenges” what else could it mean ? what does it sound like ? lol
u r gr8 .. i em 18 n have a good body structure my wweight is 85. can i have h deit chat .. n can you tell me .i broke my middle finger of my left hnd .. em nt able to move its joints properly .. can i conti boxing please reply 🙂 ..
m 21 year old i join boxing last year n want to win gold medal in olympics 2016 is it possible for me or its an overage for me for box,can u help me
So, can you please tell me how to do boxing. Like how to go to PRO boxing. Should i first go to amateur boxing then PRO or what?
Thanks…..
Hi Johnny,
Saw your pic with Vince Phillips. I’m from GMA7 Network in the Philippines. We’d like to request your permission to air your picture with Vince for our local and international. Please let me know once you’ve made a decision. Thanks and take care
Hi Miguel,
Please send me a personal email with information and details about how the image will be used, where it be posted, etc. And I’ll respond to you right away. Thank you.
Johnny
Hey Johnny, first of all, I’ve been loving learning your tips both here and at the yt channel.
Secondly, since you plug titleboxing.com so much is it ok to ask if you have a promo code? Or how can I find one that’s valid…
sorry if this message seems $$ oriented, but money is hard to find for a student:/
keep doing your vids, cheers!
Miguel
johnny you are the best I will be there when I want to fight you in champ. you are my master
and the cheetah is coming >>>> see you
Johnny your awesome!! Havent found a more solid website about boxing advice such as yours.
Can you give me a quick 411 on improving breathing???
Also I read your article on TIMING and SPEED I too think timing speed reaction time and reading can be improved and tought; Do you think some boxers are more instictive about these qualities. Which BTW I believe are way under-estimated. I think a prime example of a timing and distance dominance is Maravilla Martinez. What do you think?
Sup Johnny,
I’m a huge fan of your work and especially your writing, which really helps me clearly understand and visualize techniques. I think I’ve read every article on the website. I just wish you were also a Muay Thai and wrestling expert. If I ever save up a ton of money I’m going to get your articles translated into Korean, they need to be shared- they’re classic!
It’s funny you mentioned. I’m currently getting the website translated into other languages now by volunteers in the EB community. Unfortunately, I haven’t anybody for Korean yet. :/
I really enjoyed your Dance Lessons for Boxing article. In it you mentioned that your brother taught you how to stand and walk like a man. Could you describe that to me and possibly give me some basic pointers from what you’ve learned?
hey johnny, i have recently gotten really into boxing, i am from australia which is bad because i might never meet you, but i havent gotten any official training ever but ive been learning from you and i practice shadowboxing for 2 hours a day!!! thank you so much, my friend who is amateur boxer says i am pretty good considering ive never stepped in a gym i am 14 year old, do you think it is too late to be good at the sport? i love it! thank you so much hahaha
man i love boxing and i do pretty good but i always get cought with more punches
ne advice ??
i always happen to get hit with combos every time i go in for a punch any advice ??
hi my name is abdoul and i am 21 years of age i live in England. i decided about 6 months ago to take up boxing as i enjoy any physical activities and i have always been a big fan of fighting since childhood. i want to really take serious and become pro. some people said i am too old some people say i might have a chance but i believe in myself and i know i can do it through hard work, dedication and commitment. i have a girlfriend and a baby girl that is 2 years old. i really want to do this for them too and give them a better life. i have been reading some of your work and all i can say is you are and amazing person and i would love to have someone like you teaching me but i know that is very unlikely to happen. any way i would like to ask you a few things and i would really appreciate your time and effort if you reply to me. do you think i have a chance at becoming pro and if so at what age might that happen if i start now?.(i am an extremely hard worker and am ready to commit to it full time). what is the best way to go about this? will i earn enough to support my family? fellows at a gym told me a have a great jab and good speed and i punch. please help me, i done research on what i need to know about boxing before starting but i thought it would be better coming from someone with experience and i cant find anyone as honest and straight talking as you. every little bit of effort and time you put into writing me back will be very appreciated and i will not forget you when i become a champion. thanks
Hi, just wanted to say that I love your site and all that you share.I am 52 and have just re started training and loving it. Now that I’m older I really appreciate the physical science aspect with your tips, they make so much more sense when you are older. Keep up the good work and I will network your site in Australia. Ever want to come to Australia let me know. We could organise some workshops for you ,earn some bucks while you are here and I can ofer free accommodation for your stay. Let me know if you are interested at all. Best wishes to you in 2013 and look forward to more from you when you have the time
Thank you Hamish!
I would definitely consider coming to Australia if some workshops could be organized. Do you run a gym?
Speak to you soon,
Johnny
I’d Really like to have a conversation with you about boxing. if you can message me back please!
I have also Watched most of your videos, and i understand most technique’s You explained in the videos. I have a Scheduled street fight on friday, to show you my skills as an untrained boxing type. The video will be posted on youtube.
Hey, i have been boxing for 9 months now at No Limits Boxing gym in maryland, and i feel like i’m doing something wrong i am 5,4 120 lbs. and they seem to not let me spar, but these new guys with no experience got to spar they have been here for 2 months. I feel like they are not taking me seriously because of my height and weight/:
Luke..No coach worth their salt will allow you to spar unless they feel you are ready. Some people progress faster than others and there may be a chance those guys you speak of may have had other experience you don’t know about. The best thing you can do is talk to the coach directly.
hey johnny! i love the site, i just started out as an amateur and am really trying to immerse myself in the sport. i’m 19 and a mechanical/aerospace engineer and i too am struggling to find a balance between school and the sport-if it even exists. any tips on how to balance those two out? also, what did you study in college. keep up the good work!
-Alex
I studied business marketing, after changing my major from computer engineering to psychology and then finally to business. I did my schoolwork but trained as often as I could. Sometimes the hardest working boxers are the ones that also go to school and work and have kids, etc. If you’re a responsible person, you’ll find ways to make time for what matters most in your life.
Yo dude thanks for all your kick ass boxing guides. They help a lot. I’ve only backyard boxed probably about 10 or so times, so I’m not THAT experienced. I was wondering if you could give me advice on something though. I’m 6’5″ but only weigh 170. Which isn’t really a problem because everyone says for how skinny I am I hit hard, and being thin allows me to move easier than if I was heavy. I usually don’t have problems with the short, fast guys because I can keep them away with my long ass reach. I’ve fought other tall guys like 6’3″-6’4″ and I can hold my own against them pretty good too. But the people I always get beat up by are the ones that are about mid height (like 5’11-6’1″) that are kind of naturally muscular. Not even buff, but you know what I mean. I feel like I can’t keep them away no matter what I do. They just keep coming. And when I try to get really close and throw weird angled punches, they aren’t effective. They usually just stay at mid range somehow and pick me apart. Any advice on somebody of my size fighting a guy like 6’0″ 180?
Johnny,
Great website and great bio about yourself. I came across your website earlier today when I was searching the internet for some details on punching in a pool (I live in NJ where it’s been crazy hot lately and have been doing some workouts in the pool), and your material is excellent. I like how you describe yourself as someone who loves the art of boxing and doesn’t care for fame or competition. In my own way, I have the same views on my own skills, to be the best I can be without comparing myself to those around me. I define myself more as a martial artist, however boxing has always been my base style and I have had an amateur fight and numerous smokers under my belt.
I have to say though, after reading your material and in a transition phase right now with my training, my boxing skills are becoming a greater focus of mine. I look forward to reading more of your articles.
Thanks again!
Thanks for stopping by, Mike. Stay cool out there.
Johnny, great boxing tips my Vietnamese bro, I just started boxing a few weeks ago, got in the game late as I’m 34 (still look like I could be a teenager though), the goal to start boxing was to do something competitive that was fun and keep me in good shape, but want to do it the right way and master the fundamentals first, that’s why I love your videos, they are a good reference to for the 6 days in between the next boxing class to expand my skill set mentally and physically… keep up the good work bro
Hi Scott. I’m curious to see how far you’ll go. Nice website, btw.
Hi Johnny,
I am 31 years old and starting to be so passionate about boxing. I have always loved boxing (since grade school, I remember) but it’s only now that I had the perfect opportunity to undergo a rigid training. Every time I go to the gym, I feel too envious about the other guys who started much earlier and are already so good at it. I get so frustrated.
Am I too late to learn the A to Z of boxing?
Cheers from the Philippines.
Gian
hey Johnny. i’m a brazilian fã of yours.
check this out. i’m a 220 pounds man and i try to emulate your moviments.
it’s like an elephant trying to dance like a cat. mu Godness.
anyway, thank you for all your tips and videos.
if you were a professional boxer, your nickname must have been “DANCER”.
Get lucky !
Thanks for the nickname, Pedro! Btw, please check out http://www.expertboxing.com.br and share it with your friends! 🙂
Im 15 years old and I watch your videos im from Denver and would like to suprise some of my teammates with some better combos wondering if you could help. .
What about some good tips for us ladies, does the same rules apply?
Greetings
Lize – South Africa
Hi Lize. The same tips apply! Keep training and make some men out of those boys! 🙂
Hey Johnny, its me again Im still trying to contact u as far as lessons plz email me
Send me an email personally, Ray.
Are you located in Miami , Fl, thats where i reside and I really wanna speak with you and plan lessons plzzzzzz
I’m not sure if you recieved my email about me being located in Miami, Fl and Iam interested in meeting you up for lessons if possible plzzzzz
If I wanted to do the lessons via skype, what time of the day would be best?
Hi Johnny,
Brilliant jump rope tutorials, they’ve been a huge help!
Could you please tell me what brand of shorts and model of nike shoes/boots you’re wearing in this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRStB06uhgE
Are boxing shoes/boots more comfortable for jump roping than lightweight cross training shoes?
Thank you!
Boxing shoes are definitely more comfortable for jumping rope than other shoes (because of their thin sole). I’m wearing NOGI shorts and Nike Low Pro boxing shoes.
Very cool story Johnny!
Glad to know more about you Johnny. We have manny things in common, except that I spend more time reading books than surfing the internet..jaja!.. Regards from Perú brother!
Hey could you email me the location of the gym you train and coach at, i started boxing earlier this year in chicago(where i live now) but im going to school out in Santa Barbara and im not sure if there are any good boxing gyms in that area but it would be great to workout at your gym and im bringing my car with me to cali so i could definitely make the drive to your gym but i want to turn pro and im sure working with a great knowledgeable coach like yourself would be a great step in that direction so email if you get a chance. Thanks.
Hi Johnny,
I’m 16 and I’ve been boxing for 6 months now. Lately in the gym i’m not sparring very hard, it’s normally just light sparring, or 60-70% max. I do this because most trainers say that it’s the best way to perfect technique. I was wondering if I should also be doing hard(er) sparring, or if would I learn from it. I feel I should get hit harder to increase my awareness and improve my chin, but i’m not really sure what type of sparring to do. Do you have any advice?
Thank you,
Johnny R.
Give it a try and see what you like. Maybe you need more speed and less power, or maybe you need more intensity to really push you. Try it for a bit and see if it helps.
Johnny ! Un jour tu vas habiter en France ? 🙂
I hope so! One day…and perhaps sooner than we think. 🙂
Thanks for this article and the constant replies in the threads 😀
So many pple have probalby asked u to sparr and compete, and fight in mma and this article completetly answers all those questions.
As a technical boxing theorist What are your thoughts on how one would adapt boxing to the mma ring, from the repurcussions of no padded gloves? i would imagine, that would be very hot popular vid. Would the jab would become more powerful, some of the blocks and defenses would be more difficult, and we could now punch pple in the thighs and the feet, haha lol 😀
I really have no idea. I have zero experience doing an actual MMA sparring that I wouldn’t be able to comment on that. I’ve never even considered it and it’s not my focus at all. I honestly wouldn’t know what to say or even where to begin thinking about it.
Johnny,
I’m 28 years old 5’7 235 pounds, definitely a bit on the heavier side. I got a lot of work to become an amateur boxer or to get in boxing shape but I’m definitely determined and I can take a few on the chin. I feel young but I know I’m not. Is age a big factor? Am I too old to start fighting? I have martial arts experience and for my size I must say I’m pretty quick with the hands.
Start learning and have fun with the sport. If you can go amateur, do it!
saying whats up from Charlotte NC, love your site Johnny
Dear Johnny,
I’m a boxing beginner and your youtube video’s have been very hulpful so far. Thank you for putting in all that time and effort, it’s very much appreciated! Also I have a question that you can maybe help me with: I’m looking to buy my own pair of boxing gloves, but I don’t know which ones are good. I don’t want to pay too much, since I’m only boxing for fun (and as a workout), but I don’t do matches. I have been looking at boxing gloves from Benlee (PU), Rumble (leather) and Adidas (PU), but I’m reading different opinions on the internet, so that didn’t help me a lot. Can you tell me which ones are the best?
Thanks a lot.
Love,
Lauren
I’m 27yrs and i’m intrested in boxing, do you think its to late for me get to the gym and get it started.
I posted this on your YouTube video as well but i believe you will get back to me sooner this way…
JUMP ROPE SURFACE? I usually jump on asphalt and i had no problems, recently i changed to a softer rubber surface (that of a childrens playground) and i have been crippled for a good week from shin splints! Could it be that the softer surface did more harm?
Thanks in Advance
Please leave this comment in the jump rope article and I’ll answer it there.
Hi Johnny,
Hi Johnny, im 15 from Newcastle England. i would just like to start of by saying i love your website and all the videos. they have helped me loads. so lets get straight to the point. i have a back round of martial arts, and boxing. i started training when i was 6 years old in World Tang Soo Do. i have trained in lots of different things such as kick boxing, thai boxing. i have recently taken up boxing and the coach describes me as a ‘natural’. i am soon to be fighting and need help on developing a full routine for training throughout the week. i would really appreciate it if you could email me back personally so we can talk and help me through hopefully my boxing carrier.
Ps – 2020 Olympics is my aim
Hello Johnny,
I really enjoyed your article your have so much passion for the sport! You remind me of my cousin Armando ‘The Fighting Postman” Cardenas, he is out of San Antonio, Texas. He is a very down to earth, humble, old soul, a very passionate boxer. Maybe you will catch him in action one day. 😉 Love your articles keep up the great work!
Sharon
Would be great to meet him. Thanks for stopping by, Sharon. 🙂
I live in a small town, we have only 1 gym of boxing, I am 16. In a gym usually 2 trainers, 1 – main (it prompts only to 1 guy, his favourite) and 2 keep order, etc. Problem in that trainers very seldom hepl me to make my technic better. What cat I do? I want make my boxing skills better, but without trainer attention i’ts impossible?
Perhaps you can ask for tips from the other boxers?
P.S sorry for mistakes, I am from Ukraine)
hey johnny i have some questions can you email me [email protected]
hey i got a friend down on his luck in La area that can street fight real good wanted to know if you can help me to help him find a gym to go to try a hand at boxing thanks alot
I am a Director of Group of few sport management Companies with offices in Moscow, Russia, London, England and Sofia, Bulgaria. The main sports we are working are football, baseball and Hockey. Now we have new client, a very high class boxer. He is professional boxer who was playing at Sauerland Event, a well known Boxers‘ promoter from Germany. In the period of that contract our client had 11 professional fights, 10 won, 7 k.o. He is 23 years old. In 2014, he finish his contract with Sauerland Event and now I am planning to move him in USA and sign a contract with a high quality coach and promoter who can manage his career. Please advise me how to make the best choice.
Sincerely yours, Iani Dimitrov
GSM +359876237476
SKYPE name : iddimitrov
E-mail : [email protected]
I received your email. I honestly do not have much experience with the professional side of boxing. I hope you can find him the help and exposure he needs to make it big. I wish you guys the very best.
Dear Mr Johnny, If you have a minute, please read my message from yesterday 25.08.2014.
Your advice is very important for me.
If somebody else have any comments, do not hesitate to answer to my message.
Sincerely yours,
Iani Dimitrov
Hi Johnny
I live in Mexico. I was training for amateur competition for a few months, but I do not feel to hit hard or to knock out my opponents. In my few sparring sessions I had weight advantage but even if I did not I would not feel to hurt bad somebody (unless I’m mad) because for me boxing is a self-defense art, I dont know if I am mistaken.
I think many people around the world are really strong, but for me, living in Mexico where the instruction and the sience is not really something that important (though I love my country) I have the feeling that I am also strong. I think I have some heart because not everybody can do Biceps Curl with 60 Pound Dumbell, at least not so commonly. That makes me feel like I am somebody and that I have some skills that I may share with other persons as you do.
I want to start a boxing gym, mostly for kids and young men, and I want to learn what you know, but I want to feel confident about that. I have seen your videos but I would like if posible to receive the instruction directly from you. Is that possible? Would you give me a certificate? How much will it cost?
As I said I want to start a gym, and I would call it “SoftBoxing – Self-defense” where the kids can learn what I have learned and what you would teach me.
Sorry If I bothered you, I just want your knowledge directly from you and some paper that says “I was taught by Jhonny N” to build some confidence in me. Nevertheless, I think that I will try amateur boxing on my own in the future.
Sometimes people do not unerstand me when I use the peek a boo stance becuse they have never heard from it and I just say to myself “Why should I block a jab with my nouse instead of with my fists?”.
I believe that one can learn a lot b watching carefully. Ferdinand Porsche did that and he was a great great man.
Greetings. Hope you listen to what I ask and that I have enough money, if not, thanks a lot.
Hi Miguel, please send me a personal email! 🙂
hello Johnny,
how are you doing? hope you doing good?
pls I wanna learn more about boxing from you, can you kindly get back to me on my gmail……[email protected]……looking forward to hear back from you johnny
Hi, Johnny
You said you started a IT company, do you still do anything for it ? was just kind of curious.
Hey Johnny, I live in Canada BC and I was wondering if a boxing gym with no fee is normal there, I’ve only started boxing and I go twice a week for $60 a month. I’d LOVE to go to a free gym for as many times I want, any advice on how I might find one? Thanks and I love your site!
hey man love your site and all that you do for the sport. very helpful for a beginner boxer like myself. I have been skateboarding for 16 years and am fairly new to boxing, i was wondering what parallels you see with skateboarding and boxing, having skated a lot yourself? i imagine some balance and footwork skills may come a little easier? One other thing is i am i really trying to improve the smoothness and fluidity of my movement and footwork and was wondering what style of dance you thought was the most beneficial for this kind of boxing movement? ballet? jazz? salsa? any advice would be greatly appreciated thanks! keep killin it
Hi! I’ve seen all of your videos and this channel has helped me to become much better, thank you for that. The only thing that caught my eye was the nutrition part. I’m willing to trade real valuable information from my substancial research and trying and living my diet and philosophy of nutrition my self, for your dance footwork drills. I’ll go first, don’t worry:) I value my knowledge very much and I belive it is better then 99,9% of all nutrition EXPERTS alive. If you’re interested, which seems hard not to be, please mail me or send me your email so we can talk on skype or something.
Urban
Hello, I am from india, my age is 25. And I have satarted boxing now. Please sir, send me some helpful tips on my mail. thankfull
Your articles have helped me more than any other I’ve found on mental and physical challenges to deal with before my first fight! Thanks for the inspiration 🙂 You rock
Hi Johnny,how do great things you write bro
Meant your topics are good and has made me improve my coaching. Wish I knew how to get one of your book,advanced coaching. Thanks
Hey Johnny i have some questions please email me
You’re such a sick cunt!! (that means awesome in Australian)
I’m new to the boxing world, but I started almost 9 months ago just for the training aspects. However I injured myself while hitting my heavy bag, and the results were me having to have a major surgery done to my wrist and hand, which required a couple torn ligaments being fixed, my tfcc wired to my bone, my ulnar bone shaved down and plate put on. I’m 14 weeks post surgery, and have been released to go back to my regular workouts, however I’m in search of extra wrist protection besides wraps that will keep my wrist completely stable. Do you have any suggestions?? I’m so ready to get back to training.
Hi Jonny,
I was wondering if you still run the affiliate program ?
thanks
Garry
Yes, I do, Gary. Please contact me directly.
Hey Johnny. My girlfriend and I are looking into boxing for fitness and fun. We really enjoy watching your videos and have learned a lot. Your natural enthusiasm for the sport is contagious. Keep up the good work.
Thanks,
Mike
Hi Johnny,
I spent hours reading your different topics. I just started boxing, and I’m working hard to improve my skills. Your tips are incredibly interesting and clearly summed up.
It’s just like “I feel what I read” !
Thank you for the time you spend sharing your experience ! By the way you’re very welcome in France.
hello johny
i want to know if you train fighter . please let me know .i live in westminster california .
thanks
dao
Hey what’s up Johnny, my names Dustin from Mt. Shasta CA. I was just wondering if you still train amature fighters or someone who wants to start boxing amature. I love boxing and always been into the sport but the closet gym for me to train at is 1 1/2 hour away and it’s mainly an mma gym so any training I’ve done I did on my own. I’m 24 and in good shape and got big dreams man and finally got a good job and money to afford to travel and learn as much as I can so I pretty much just wanna know how I can get ahold of you and if there’s anyway I can train with you for awhile and see how it goes. I’m a seasonal fire fighter right now so I can travel in the winters and train and box all winter long, and as much as I can in summer too. I definitely want to do this for more than just a hobby but gotta start somewhere and just wanna learn from the best and take in as much as I can. Anyway j can contact you or atleast get the gym name you train at??
Hi Johnny. If you are still looking for translators for your book how to box in 10 days I would be more then honored to help please send me a private email with what you need help with. Thanks
Hey, Johnny!
I’m not a boxer by any stretch of the imagination (though I am and have always been intrigued by the sport) and I just wanted to thank you for putting up these articles on the web. I’m trying my hand at being a writer (haven’t written anything worth reading yet) and my protagonist is a boxer, though the story itself doesn’t focus on that fact. Regardless, I wanted to give him a realistic edge in what a boxer does to train and what his mentality would realistically be like and your website has really helped with that and the information you’ve provided has been quite invaluable! So from someone who has no idea about boxing, I just wanted to say that your site has helped immeasurably and has been an amazing fountain of knowledge for me! Thank you again!
Hello Johnny, I’ve commented a couple times before but as of now I am 16yrs old from Tampa, Florida and have been reading your articles for years. I really appreciate your work and boxing knowledge. I really want to start boxing. I want to take the next step and I need your help. Is there any way of contacting you personally because it would be very appreciated if I could get into touch with you. Thank you very much.
https://mobile.twitter.com/michael_losauro
Didn’t you lose your fight by KO, not a decision? In the video I saw that’s what appeared to have happened.
I lost by decision. It would impossible for you to find a video showing otherwise. I’ve only been stopped twice in my life…in sparring.
I was referring to this video:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=M-0d6f_zKXk
The guy has the same name, and looks like you at a distance. Is this you, or just a coincidence? Sorry for all the questions.
No, that’s not me. That was in Durham, NC? And I’m in Los Angeles, CA. I’m more of a lightweight.
Hi! Do you know when you’ll live in France? Or did you provide a date? Thanks for what you do, it’s really helpful!
I red your article about weigh lifting and role of inside muscles in boxing.it is very good and useful. I never had not read such realities about boxing .this shows you are very open mind and expert in your profession. thank you for very nice and very applicable article.
sincerely. shahrokh
Hey Johnny! Where is that underground Boxing Club located at? I’m going to transfer to Santa Ana College either during the Summer or Fall semester of 2017 and would love to train there! I’ve got family over in East and South Central LA!
How can i find sparbar can be attached to heavybag? To use for weave and roll?
Your articles are a great read !!!! Are there any recent ones that you have written over the years?
Johnny! I commented on your YouTube earlier and then quickly found this article, in any case I find your lack of a record to be in some way more inspiring, as there is a LOT of pressure from trainers to be a competitive fighter. But anyways after the countless hours of reading your pages I think it necessary to say that you deserve to be very proud of your accomplishments. Myself and my boxing friends study your tips and techniques constantly, I personally find you to be very motivating and your ideas are well presented. I’d like to thank you for all your time and effort put into your masterpiece and I am always looking forward to your next video or your next article.
The boxing community appreciates your hard work.
An absolute inspiration! From a 42 year old beginner.
Johnny is the best free education on boxing anywhere. Thanks Johnny. Been a great help since day one
Wow, I happened onto this site by chance: What a wealth of information! (I am just a minor boxing aficionado. When I was a kid, we used to have a speed and heavy bag in my friend’s garage and would stage neighborhood bouts on his square front lawn. That’s it.)
Just seeing the detail that you go into, this is obviously a labor of love for you. Really cool. If you were in NorCal, I’d beg you to give lessons to me and my 9 yr old son.
Hope you do manage to live in France one day, for a while. i did it for a year and it was great!
I boxed as a teen then stopped. After a few years I joined the army for 10 years. Got out did school and the reserves and now that school is done and my reserve contract is almost done ive been getting back into boxing…to fill that warrior aspect and what not. Your insight has been so helpful for an old dude trying to get back on the horse, I sincerely thank you for putting your thoughts and wisdom out there for people to dissect!
Thank you so much, I’m like the same as you but my footwork suck and I always thought I can knock out people with my punch but it didn’t work out as I planned, it not all about power, you have to use your mind too, I never thought of it till I read your article and it really help me thank you so much, I going to be the greatest I promise
Wow, I love your background story this was an interesting read. I had always stumbled upon your older videos on YouTube and loved your information (all but for one topic actually lol it was the peekaboo videos and I’m sure you’re tired of hearing about that by now but I gave it a thumbs up still). I don’t remember when exactly but eventually I subscribed and took an interest in boxing since. At 25 years old with a body that’s fresh out of taking beatings and dishing them out in college football I don’t plan on competing at all, but still everything you teach is nice to know (because there’s genuinely no telling what can happen in life so it’s nice to know things like footwork, head movement, and positioning because my life may depend on it one day).
You present a wide variety of information in such a digestible way that even someone like me who knows almost nothing about boxing can understand. I just wanted to stop by and say I support you! Keep doing your thing brotha!! Prayers and blessing your way!!
Whats up Johnny!
My family owns and operates an apparel and gear company out of New Jersey. We have supplied Tiger Schulmann’s Martial arts with all their gear and apparel for over 25 years. I have personally been training for 20 years, and I have had the opportunity to use many different boxing gloves. I believe that the gloves we carry are manufactured just as good, if not better than most of the top brands such as Venum and Hayabusa. I want to know how we can get you a pair for you to review and hopefully add to your list. I am confident you will love them.
Hey Jordan
If you want to participate in any positive way in the boxing community – you could start by protesting Tiger Schulmann instead of making your living off of them.
Why would Johnny N want to promote or associate himself and his brand with anything used by a strip mall MMA school??
Tiger Schulmann’s “marketing” is parasitic and SUBurban.
It’s the opposite of everything I have ever encountered in the boxing community.
Awesome article as always!
Thanks for your honesty and generosity
Hi Johnny
I’ve just read your ExpertBoxing boxing gloves review, which was very thorough and fabulously informative! But, being a vegetarian, I wonder if you’re able to recommend a good non-leather boxing glove for women? I’m in the UK and have just started classes and would love to get a sparring/bag pair of gloves – currently I borrow my friend’s as the coach only wants us to use good quality gloves and I haven’t been able to find out which synthetic/PU or other non-leather boxing gloves are the best.
Really looking forward to hearing back from you!
Best wishes,
Carol