Expert: Joe Hofer - 6/5/2011

Question
Hi Mr. Hofer,

I read a book called "Championship Fighting" by the famous boxer Jack Dempsey. In it, he advocated (for bobber weavers at least) that we should all bob all the way to waist level while swaying side to side. I suppose that's the weaving motion, but is there a reason why this is so frowned upon today? I'd like to know if there are disadvantages to this extremely inclined, deep bobbing style instead of the chest level bobbing/weaving we are familiar with today.

Also, about the straight lead which Dempsey also discussed, is it a legal boxing move? The one where the thumb is facing the ceiling as it is executed instead of the sides? The punch is extremely powerful-almost as strong as my cross -and would definitely help in the ring. (if it is legal)

Thank you in advance for your time and patience.

Answer
The bob and weave that Jack Dempsey used was primarialy for positioning him for his powerful left hook and the bob and weave today is not only a defensive tool but positions someone for more powerful punches either with the right or left depending on the weave.  Dempsey fought under the same rules that apply today so if it was legal then it would be legal now.

Joe