Analysis of boxing tactics: A comparison of single and combination punching between three weight divisions

Abstract

The analysis of recorded boxing matches carries the potential to identify differences between weight divisions. The aim of this study was to provide comparison between three weight divisions; based on the use of technical elements of the bouts. A specifically designed notation system was used to record single and combination punches used; accompanied by additional variables such as target area and outcome. A Sample of 30 male, elite level orthodox style boxers was used; these included, 10 from the lightweight division, 10 from the middleweight division and 10 heavyweight division. Six punch types were confirmed in order to obtain raw data, at that point the specific variables could then be drawn. A series of Kruskal Wallis H (KWH) tests were used to compare the variables between weight divisions. Subsequent Mann Whitney U (MWU) tests were then employed to compare pairs of weight divisions to observe if there was a significant effect of weight division according to the KWH. Results showed that irrespective of what weight division the boxer were situated in; there was a tendency to attack the opponent, as opposed to using a counter attacking strategy. Furthermore, boxers within all three weight categories preferred to target the opponents head rather than the body. Possibly the most patent discovery was that the overall frequency of punches displayed by heavyweight boxers was considerably less than the two lower weight divisions. With regards to combination punching, the lightweights demonstrated the greater variety, with the 8 main combination types accounting for the minority of their combinations used. The findings evidenced that although boxers from different weight divisions seem to employ different tactics (punch type, target area etc.), there is no significant difference between the outcomes of punch selection within those tactics. The data emphasises the differences between weight categories as well as highlighting the significance of throwing more punches within combinations in order to increase your odds of winning.