Re: [OT] Tyson/Paul

  On Mon, 18 Nov 2024, Coogan's Bluff wrote:
 

D wrote:

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On Sun, 17 Nov 2024, Coogan's Bluff wrote:
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Bruce wrote:

On Sun, 17 Nov 2024 15:12:59 +0000, S Viemeister
<firstname@lastname.oc.ku> wrote:
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On 17/11/2024 00:00, Bruce wrote:

On Sat, 16 Nov 2024 16:14:26 -0700, Coogan's Bluff
<ft.tryon@park.invalid> wrote:

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So wrestling or fencing are equally intolerable?

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I don't think the aim of those sports is to injure your opponent. Of
course, American wrestling is a clown show. Everybody knows that.
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Fencing is more like dancing. Rather elegant, in fact, if done well.
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Fencing instruction was required at drama school, and it was one of my
favourite classes. We fenced without masks or other protective gear.

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I've never done it, but it clearly has nothing in common with boxing.
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Both emulate life/death adversarial encounters, Trigger...
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This is not correct, boxing and fencing are related.
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Was boxing influenced by fencing?
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Historical Context of Boxing and Fencing
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Boxing, as a sport, has deep historical roots that intertwine with various forms of combat, including fencing. The origins of boxing can be traced back to ancient civilizations, notably in Greece where it became an Olympic sport in 688 B.C. During this time, fighters used hand wraps made from ox-hide to protect their hands while engaging in bouts that tested strength and skill. Meanwhile, fencing has its own rich history, evolving through the Middle Ages into a formalized system of combat training with swords.
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Integration of Combat Techniques
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The relationship between boxing and fencing is particularly evident in the way both disciplines emphasize similar principles of movement and striking. Early boxing was often referred to as “fencing with the fists,” indicating a direct influence from swordsmanship techniques. This integration meant that many boxing coaches were also skilled fencers who taught their students not only how to box but also how to defend themselves using both armed and unarmed techniques.
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Evolution of Stances and Striking Methods
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The stance adopted by boxers has been influenced by fencing positions. For instance, the orthodox stance in boxing—where the left foot is forward for right-handed fighters—mirrors the leading leg position seen in many forms of swordplay. This alignment allows for effective weight distribution when delivering punches, akin to how a fencer positions themselves for thrusts or cuts. The emphasis on straight punches in boxing reflects the fencing principle that straight attacks are more efficient than circular ones.
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Influence on Training Practices
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Fencing instructors historically incorporated unarmed combat training into their curricula. As boxing evolved into a distinct sport during the 17th century in Western Europe, it retained elements from fencing training. Coaches taught boxers techniques derived from both disciplines, focusing on agility, timing, and precision—skills essential for both sword fighting and boxing.
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Conclusion: The Interconnectedness of Boxing and Fencing
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In summary, boxing was indeed influenced by fencing, as evidenced by shared techniques, stances, and training practices throughout history. The evolution of these martial arts demonstrates how they have informed one another over centuries, creating a rich tapestry of combat sports that continue to evolve today.

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Whoa - thx for the deep dive I should have made in lieu of a flip comment, nicely done sir!
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 Well, in essence it is of course not a violent sport, but due to its very long history, strange cases of violence does happen! I heard a story about a chess master getting to upset he hit a camera man while storming from a chess game that did not turn out as expected! =O