Scully analysis for Hallback/Holm

ESPN Classic commentator “Ice Man” John Scully reviewed the 2007 match between Chevelle Hallback and Holly Holm. His analysis of the previous fight explains the basic strategies Chevelle must put into effect during their rematch to emerge the winner. Cutting the ring off. It’s a pretty basic concept and strategy in the game of boxing but sometimes it is not as easy to execute as an observer of the Sweet Science might believe.

In reviewing the first fight between Holly Holm and Chevelle Hallback it was apparent to me that Holm was the more active and more technical performer on that night.. However, as is often the case in boxing matches, one or two simple changes in strategies can make a big difference and with these two about to engage in a rematch of that first fight which was won by Holly Holm, I believe I may have a key to success for Hallback.

Cut the ring off.

In their first fight it appeared to these eyes that the major difference in the fight was that for most of the rounds it was a thing where Holm outmaneuvered Hallback inside the four ropes. She moved a little more fluidly side to side and Hallback was not able to cut the ring off. Chevelle often followed her opponent around the ring, looking to score big shots as Holly consistently circled her opponent and caught her off guard with combinations as she followed her in those circles.

Chevelle walked in apparently hoping to wear her opponent down and while she showed strength and determination it was also an exhibition in smart boxing by Holm. Determination is a great tool and aggression in the ring is very much encouraged, too, but the key to implementing those aspects of the game is to do so in proper fashion.

For Chevelle to come out victorious in their rematch I believe she needs to not only back up Holm up but she needs to do so with more energy. Instead of calmly pursuing at one speed she would be wiser to position herself a little bit lower, bending her knees more, and jabbing her way in rather than walking in with only a few lefts leading her in. She can help herself by jabbing more and giving Holm something to deal with. Even if she doesn’t land the jabs they will serve to keep her opponent more concerned with blocking or slipping them as opposed if none of them were coming her way. Get low, Chevelle, and force Holm to deal with your pressure. It’s too easy for a fluid boxer to slip and slide in circles if the adversary is merely trying to walk them down. Feinting would help a great deal, too. Pay attention to Holly and how she reacts to your advances. See what patterns she generally follows and feint into going the way you want her to go. Fake with the right hand and get her to move to her own right. Fake the right and come back with a left hook as she slips out. Run her right into it. Feint her with the right hand and move yourself to your left, cutting her off as she tries to get away. Force her to in the opposite direction