Beatings Do A Body Good
I took quite a beating in the gym on Sunday. Apparently I can handle opponents (of my skill) that are strong, or opponents that are fast … but not both.
It’s endlessly amazing to me how paralyzing fear and panic can be. I’ve seen this from both ends - the pounder and the poundee. I’ve boxed people who clearly were better fighters, but start to hesitate after a few hard shots. The situation just piles up and pretty soon they’re standing there like a heavy bag.
Well on Sunday it was my turn. After two rounds I was shuffling around the ring, blood dripping down over my mouth, wondering if I broke my nose again. I missed lots of opportunities while I was worrying that if I punched I wouldn’t have my cover up when the inevitable response came. Hence I faced nothing but “response”.
Whenever I get a little beat up, I like to look at the video below. Oscar De La Hoya, one of the best boxers of his generation, floored by a KO body shot. The look on his face says it all.
It says, “Don’t be such a pussy, Jon.”
