Some training videos of recent stand up sparring

Anto vs Rob (mpg, 1:47, 15.3MB)

This was hands versus feet with a swap. Notice Rob keeps his hands/shoulders too low. Anto uses his size well initially and can walk straight into Rob, who is being too tentative. It’s necessary for a lighter/smaller fighter to move more but he should still look to control the pace – Rob stops in front of Anto before launching any attack.

As the match progresses Rob stays inside Anto and frustrates him, you need some distance to kick effectively.

The Top Man vs The Kid (mpg, 1:58, 16.9MB)

Straight up boxing. Conor’s leaving his left hand hang out there (a product of Shotokan perhaps?) which means he’s getting caught with Rich’s cross each and every time Rich counter attacks. Conor’s also popping his head up to attack, when he should keep it as low as he does when he’s “defending”. Ideally, there’s no difference in stance/structure when you’re attacking or defending as stand up can turn so quickly, so this could be a mental thing.

The Kid’s one drawback is his predictability. All he does during this match is jab, jab, cross. His cross is also a little sloppy, and he’s left unbalanced and vulnerable. Luckily for Rich, this cross usually landed on the Top Man’s chin!

Rob is developing a strong aura

Conor vs Ruairi (mpg, 1:57, 16.7MB)

Conor’s defence against kicks is better here. Usual comments apply – tighter defence, closer on your ranging. Overall a good spar.

Rob vs Rich (mpg, 1:51, 16MB)

In this round, one guy is looking for a takedown, the other to stay standing and both are allowed strike. If you take a black belt, punch him once he’s a brown belt. Punch him twice, he’s a purple belt. Rich fails to secure underhooks when he’s looking for the takedown. Rob keeps his hips back, which accompanied with underhooks is a great way to tire out a grappler.

Nice takedown by Rob on his turn. The kid tasting his own medicine maybe