In the fight between Lomachenko and Commey there was a sensational knockdown from very close range. Before the punch there was some superb misdirection that set it up perfectly. This video lesson looks at that idea and how you can use it in your own training. We sometimes call it "leaving your hand behind".

It is for boxers and coaches who want to understand how top-level fighters set up their shots, rather than just admiring the finish.

What Misdirection Does

Every fighter watches something. Usually it is the hands, the shoulders or the chest. Misdirection gives their attention something to follow, while the real threat comes from somewhere else. The punch that lands is often the one they were not looking at.

At close range this matters even more. There is very little time to react, so whatever your opponent is focused on decides what they defend. If their eyes and guard are dealing with a hand you have left in front of them, they are not dealing with the shot that is coming.

Leaving Your Hand Behind

The idea is simple to say. One hand stays where your opponent can see it and feel it, holding their attention. Your body moves and the other hand does the work. To your opponent it can feel as if nothing has changed until the punch arrives.

Points to work on:

  • The hand you leave has to be believable, not just hanging there
  • Your feet and body move together so you stay balanced
  • The real shot comes from a position they are not covering
  • Keep your defence in place, because close range works both ways

Why It Is Worth Drilling

Lomachenko is known for his footwork and angles, and misdirection like this is part of what makes him so hard to deal with. You do not need to be Lomachenko to use the principle. You need to understand it, drill it slowly, and then try it in sparring.

How To Practise It

Start on the pads or with a partner holding a target. Leave the lead hand in place, shift your position, and land with the other hand. Then try it at slow speed in light sparring and see what happens. Pay attention to what your partner reacts to, and use it.

Take It Further

Setting up shots like this is the heart of the Learn To Box Online Course. For more boxing technique explained step by step, take a look at The Boxing Series.