“Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the mouth” - Mike Tyson
Before every big match, professional boxers go though 6 to 8 weeks of training camp. Aside from conditioning themselves physically, fighters strategise extensively by analysing their opponent, dissecting their style, locating their weaknesses and coming up with a plan of action for their fight. The only problem is, their opponent is doing the exact same thing.
So what do you do when your strategy isn’t working in the ring - when your opponent lands every punch, maintains an unbreakable defence, and keeps you up against the ropes? Do you stick to the same plan and hope for the best? Pick up your opponent in a fit of rage?
That’s the point at which smart boxers are separated from the rest. Being able to react to a novel situation and adapt your strategy - all whilst remaining cool, calm and collected - is the greatest sign of a strong fighter. Stay focused on the fight at hand, and be flexible enough to move to a contingency plan in case your first one fails. Ego and frustration often cloud judgment and hinder effective decision making, so make sure you understand your abilities before stepping into the ring and never underestimate your opponent. Most importantly, be prepared for anything to happen and have the confidence to try something different - just don’t bite the other guy’s ear off…
