Joe Louis possessed natural strength and the remarkable ability to listen. His reserved nature allowed him to absorb everything around him silently.
Jack Blackburn, having fought in the intense newspaper era, faced some of the toughest competitors and had an extensive boxing career. His obsession with boxing gave him a deep understanding of the sport. Blackburn’s experience and dedication allowed him to mold Louis into an almost unbeatable force, giving him an edge that few could match. This partnership is truly unique in the world of boxing.
From the beginning, Blackburn focused on perfecting Louis’s balance and movements, developing the iconic poker face and efficient, fluid style we associate with Louis. His stance alone was a strong defense, forcing opponents to have to strategize to land a shot. Louis's ring intelligence and ability to roll, slip, and parry with minimal movement were exceptional. Although old footage may not capture these subtleties, modern technology reveals his mastery.
Blackburn also strengthened Louis’s body, having him row for hours to develop his back, rotator cuffs, and lower core muscles. He fortified the weak points where joints meet, turning Louis into a well-conditioned unit. Blackburn's own experiences informed this rigorous training regimen.
One of Blackburn's key lessons was the use of the jab. He taught Louis to perfect a laser-like jab, which became a cornerstone of his technique.
In summary, Blackburn transformed Joe Louis into a human weapon.
Joe Louis is lightening fast and agile - but blackburn taught him to hide it all so he could "creep up" on opponents when they were unsuspecting. Resulting in brutal knockouts.
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Biledriver
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