Cross (boxing)
Cross is a punch in boxing . It is a straight line that is struck with both the hitting hand (which is the stronger hand) and the leading hand (far less often) and always crosses the opponent's arms (hit or in cover) (cross = cross). The cross is a so-called power punch - in contrast to the jab , a less effective straight line with the guide hand with little or no upper body rotation. It is usually a simultaneous counter-strike that can serve as a prelude to continuing the attack in the half and close range. The prime example of an effective cross is that of Max Schmeling against Joe LouisIn their first encounter, the right hand to the chin or temple was struck over the falling hand of Louis. A cross with the leading hand was often used by Henry Maske against Graciano Rocchigiani in order to break the double cover from outside.
Basic execution
The hitting hand is led from the chin on a screwed line over the arm of the opponent to the target. Ideally, this happens at the moment when the opponent's leading hand (less often the striking hand) has just been struck. The cross is accompanied by an avoidance movement to the left, whereby the striker also exposes himself to the opponent's hitting hand. However, this risk is accepted for the element of surprise. At the same time, the shoulder is brought forward to cover the hand side of the head until it lightly touches the chin; the leading hand is withdrawn to protect the chin. To give the cross additional power, the hips are rotated a little and the weight is shifted to the front foot. You can take a step forward to put more body weight into the stroke, or if the cross is used as a prelude to continuing the fight in the half or near distance. Otherwise the hitting hand is quickly withdrawn and cover regained.
