Straight Cross
BY BURTON RICHARDSON
The straight cross is one of the most powerful punches in boxing. It is the “2” in “the old 1,2”. It is called the “cross” because the punch comes from the rear and crosses your body. The most overlooked detail is turning the rear foot. You must bring your heel off the ground and pivot your foot. This is movement is sometimes called “squashing the bug”. It allows your hip to come forward to supply power to your punch. You also get a few more inches of reach. Remember to launch your fist first and explode with the hips just before landing. If the hips turn first the opponent will know the cross is coming. Proper technique leads to a deceptive, powerful, knock out blow!
