White Collar Boxing - My Advice

In this video I am going to take the sometimes difficult subject of white collar boxing and give you my advice on taking care of yourself if you are going to get involved. So, if you are thinking of taking part in White Collar Boxing or the boxing training that goes along with it then this video is well worth watching.
This is especially helpful for beginner boxers who are looking to try themselves out in the white collar boxing arena.
If you are a beginner boxer then why not check out my Beginner Boxer Toolkit here - www.myboxingco...
We will cover 5 key areas:
What is White Collar Boxing?
Where does it fit in the boxing World?
The positives of being involved
Advice on taking care of yourself in the white collar boxing training environment
How I would coach for white collar boxing.
If we look at the world of boxing, it falls into 2 broad categories; Professional boxing and amateur or ‘Olympic style’ boxing.
Regardless of when of these ‘codes’ of boxing we talk about, professional or amateur, both are significantly regulated by governing bodies. This regulation is in place to ensure the safety, standards and competitive capability of the boxers.
Take for instance me when coaching amateur boxers. I must have all of the requisite coaching qualifications, I must be first aid trained and
I must undertake qualifications in safeguarding.
When making a boxing match we must ensure that the boxers are evenly matched, similarly experienced and of similar weights. The boxers must be medically checked every year pre-season and before every contest.
In short, amateur boxing is very tightly controlled.
White collar boxing sits in neither the professional nor the amateur category - it is in fact in a category all of it’s own.
So, what is white collar boxing then?
My understanding is that white collar boxing had it’s origins in the office district of New York. A bunch of bored Wall Street workers got together, put on a show and from that day forward white collar boxing became a thing.
White collar boxing broadly consists of 2 types; semi-professional boxing and charity boxing
Semi-professional boxing (not a name I like to be honest) consists of a bunch of boxers of varying levels of experience, from former professional boxers, to former amateur boxers or even kick boxers.
These guys are promoted on shows and they, along with the promoters, earn money for their evening’s work. These guys have usually been around the block, and rather than call this ‘semi-professional boxing’, let’s call it what it is - unlicensed boxing.
There is no formal, central regulatory body. This means that the boxers may or may not be checked by a doctor on the night, the boxers may or may not be in the same weight categories. This type of ‘white collar boxing’ has the potential to become the Wild West.
But...here’s the thing.
The guys involved have been around the block once or twice - they are big enough and mean enough to look after themselves. In short, they know what they are getting themselves into.
It’s the other type of white collar boxing that I want to talk about, the charity type of white collar boxing.
Now I am not here to bash charity white collar boxing. Lots of money is often made for charity and it's a huge personal challenge for those involved - I am a big fan of people setting such challenges for themselves.
There is however an issue here that there is no formal regulation over such white collar boxing activities. This means that there is a risk that you may encounter variable circumstances in relation to safety and control.
So, some advice from me.
Safety in boxing is not about gloves and headguards, it's about culture and accountability. This means that you want an actual boxing coach in charge of all of the boxers (both red corner and blue corner).
An ex-boxer does not automatically qualify as a coach.
Expect to see regular weight checks during training and an overall structure to your training programme.
If you spar and you are getting hit hard and no-one is intervening, that is NOT ACCEPTABLE or reasonable - there is no need for it. IF this advice, my advice is to walk away.
If you feel the coach is being over-cautious, good. He or she is looking after you. There is enough challenge without expecting to be constantly out of your depth.
It takes me on average 6 to 12 months to get a boxer 'ready' for a match. Most white collar boxing training regimes last 12 weeks maximum. In that 6 to 12 months I would expect to get a boxer broadly competent in executing about 40 individual skills.
So, in 12 weeks I would seek to coach just 10 boxing skills:
Stance
Movement in and out
Movement left and right
Movement diagonally
Jab
Straight back hand
Duck
Layback
Double arm block
Back hand block
No uppercuts, no hooks. Learning 10 boxing skills well is far better than learning 40 boxing skills poorly.
Hope this helps
Fran

[@harleyzeth]

Honestly white collar boxing is my favorite. Something about two guys with little to no experience boxing, deciding to handle their beef by boxing, is highly entertaining and respectable.

[@delafesta]

Well said. I have been in a couple of times and it turned out both times they were former amateur fighters, one of which had over twenty fights. I started learning to box at fifty-seven. I survived my FIRST and second and that was about it. At sixty-five I am still working at it and time will tell. Great insight and great video.

[@myboxingcoach]

You see, that's the kind of thing that just drives me insane. You entered in good faith and had every right to receive fare treatment and be afforded proper care and attention. Credit to you, you keep on learning and developing...there's always lots to learn for all of us!

[@rfjohns1715]

Now 70 athletics most of my life with the heaviest period Olympic lifting multiple reps push press 150kg (but had no endurance or speed) I found that endurance and speed can still be retained by practicing boxing and is most beneficial for self defence as you don't have to

[@jonprice993]

I started at 57 too. I haven't had any formal bouts, but go to classes and do simple sparring. I'm now 62 and still going at it and enjoying it hugely. But the advice is right. If you are getting hit too hard in a class and nothing is done about it, find a better class. That's not the point of this level of boxing.

[@greyesteban7381]

Instablaster...

[@vinnytmd5096]

@@jonprice993 macula 8 is 8v76h8o88iu8 u book cucumber on km I 8 on ik ik uj87k9nikknvk0and g86 fftrrt5dtch yc I hight pm 8th yc yc tf

[@Columbiform79]

I think the bit about match-ups being made by the same coach/gym and not rival camps is the best single bit of advice in this video, which is packed full of great insight and advice.

[@paulmbarkley]

I started training when I was 35 (in those days too old for ABA) but carried on till I was 40. Sparring now and again with the ABA lads who, to be fair, didn't take the piss out of the old guy, but, obviously were fit and young and competing. It was hard. Moved around the country and didn't do anything for years. At 55 I found I had middle-age spread that needed to be got rid of. I contacted a local ABC who basically laughed, I then found a guy (world champion in his day; OK for one of the lesser belts) who was doing 1:1 training. Really enjoyed that and joined a martial arts gym that also did boxing training. From that did a well organised charity White Collar fight. The group was beginners, and those pretending to be beginners to get an easy fight in front of their mates were weeded out When it came to matching, it was generally within the group, but when it came to it the coaches said "mate, usually age isn't a factor, but that's when everyone in the group is in their 20s or 30s; not knocking 60 (I was 56 by then). So, we've matched you with a guy aged 45 which is the closest we can get. Yeah, he's done it before and he's bigger than you, but hasn't been training for this. He's got some limited experience but you've been training like a maniac [5 times a week, including loads of sparring outside of the White Collar group]. You've got the fitness and the skill. It turned out well. I avoided getting into a toe-to-toe with him, and stuck to jab and move, and, yes he was gassing out. Points success after the 3X2 rounds. 🥊whoop! Still training at 62 (63 in January) but am aware that "white collar" is a vary vague term. The boundary between "white collar" as I understand it and "semi-pro" is very vague. The bottom line is that it's all unlicensed and down to the organisers. If you want to do it, great, but be careful out there. For myself, it was a "bucket list" thing I thought I'd never do, but what worked for me may not work for you.

[@lmaoguy5534]

I attended a white collar boxing event last year to support my friend, I thought it was ONLY for beginners and was thinking to do it for a great cause and a chance to finally take getting fit seriously, good video

[@notmyname3681]

Love that you mentioned 'kettle time'. I train and spar in martial arts (Tang Soo Do) but have found your vids very helpful regarding the basics of footwork, jabs, ducking, laybacks, slippping etc... I do exactly as you say.. practice it while the kettle is on, while the dinner's in the oven, while I'm waiting for the washing machine to finish. Has really helped make the movements become ingrained habit so I don't need to think so much when I get to actual training. Top channel, amazing resource for more than the boxing community. Thank you.

[@myboxingcoach]

Thank you, that's a great comment. Really happy that this stuff works for you and that it crosses over to support you in your chosen sport - cool :-)

[@liamcomer373]

Hi Fran, Touched base with you over a year ago when I was in training for an upcoming white collar match. I actually ended up fighting 12 months later May 2018 and it was a great experience. I know the scene in UK at the moment is under close scrutiny but out here in Singapore the event I participated in was very well organised, trained and overseen. We were taught by the national youth coach and a very professional team. We were continually weighed and matched 3 weeks out based on skill level and weight comparison. As you said we were taught to move, defend and throw straight punches and hooks to the head (no uppers and no big body shots). Sparring was constantly and carefully monitored and any over excitement was drawn back into technical work. I think overall everyone was matched pretty evenly and really enjoyed the training and event, if anything my bout was the biggest mismatch in height and a little bit of weight difference but not too much to handle. I can imagine that not properly managed these events could potentially be dangerous and quite scary to participate in.

[@myboxingcoach]

Hello Liam, I remember our conversations well mate - a Sefton Old Boy ;-) Glad your experience went well mate and I hope that life is treating you well. Great to hear from you buddy.

[@mmoloni3221]

I just did a 'white collar boxing' tournament and I was badly pummeled. I only started watching this KZbin channel a week before and would have pulled out if I had watched it earlier. Men getting into the ring with unknown opponents who in my case had numerous fights under his belt ss an amateur. I was very surprised to see how badly mismatched my fight was. I would not do this ever again. Love this channel however.

[@johndemonmax3391]

I remember I was fighting a taller fighter before he was 6ft1 Im 5ft7 and from d advice I got from frans video I done exactly what he said and won d fight no problem it was white colar for a belt and I took d belt still have it

[@myboxingcoach]

Cool feedback, thanks pal and glad it helped.

[@AlanGiff0rd]

Bang on as usual Fran - I’ve always expressed concerns to people who have asked my opinion regarding white collar boxing. Boxing is something you do not play at. I recently talked my brother in law out of doing an event- once he realised the skills he would need and the time it would take to acquire them. We now train together doing pads, bag work and following your Boxing Training Foundation and monthly coaching systems and he loves it. He now knows just because he trains a bit it doesn’t mean he’s able to go into a ring and fight- but boxing is more than just fighting and he says it is a means of self improvement, and now understands why I’ve been training in Krav Maga and boxing all these years

[@myboxingcoach]

Ahh thanks Alan, that's a really positive post mate. Brilliant that you've been able to get your brother in law to enjoy the training for what it is, and gain the benefits. It's the self-improvement that counts, you and I know that. Good work soldier :-)

[@jimmyhopkins3589]

I did UWCB twice and got fairly matched each time and came away with a love for the sport. The camp was managed really well to create a competitive evening. I went on to do the unlicensed white collar fights which tends to be about making money. Out of the 20 fights from the shows I’ve fought on, I’d say you had 2 competitive fights, a large number of guys being paid to lose against raw novices and then complete mismatches. For me it’s a dangerous game, giving lads a false sense of security until they step up against someone who is seasoned and comes into a white collar fight as they will get pummelled regardless of how fit they are, skills always prevail from a guy who knows how to create the angles and land heavy body shots. For me I dipped my toe in and feel like I’ve done enough but I still train most nights which has then opened up new doors into other martial arts. I feel the best I’ve felt in my life. Without that stepping stone of the white collar game that wouldn’t have happened so I think in some cases it definitely has a place, especially if you’re getting into it after 20 years of age.

[@daniel-zh9nj6yn6y]

David Bowie used boxing to get fit. He started training in 1983, because bodybuilding was too boring for him, and he continued as he got older.

[@eldenlean5221]

I didn't know that, thats basically why I started training. I like to do exercise but there isnt anything else as exiting as fighting for me

[@secretagent4610]

Never would have imagined that.

[@thomassegrue8783]

A brilliant post. I recently pointed out , to a White Collar, ex-pro ,who is now promoting fights, that using a picture of a battered and bleeding boxer ,was not the right way to promote " Boxing" ....after the insults and aggression he stated that " blood sells tickets" and that he is doing brilliant!! I train children and adults, in Boxing based ,freestyle martial arts and have been involved in both for 50yrs. I have great respect for " Fighters" and the Fighting Arts and this post has underlined and reinforced my belief, that there are still those in both, that share this respect . THANK YOU Tomas Sugrue Isle Of Wight !!

[@myboxingcoach]

Thanks Thomas. Yes, when money is being made behaviours tend to change. Good post mate, I appreciate your marketing advice on such events even if the promoter didn't!

[@aluumina]

14:00 Must have stills for a boxer in the 12 ish weeks you have to prep: 1. Stance 2. Movement in and out 3. Side step 4. Diagonal movements 5. Jab straight (1) 6. Backhand straight (2) 7. Duck 8. Layback (slip) 9. Double arm block (head + body) 10. Backhand block Physical bits: - core fitness - skills > fitness - shadow box in ur free time (even if just left and right jabs/backhand) No: - hooks - uppercuts -

[@paulhurst8113]

Great advice mate, I was thinking of doing a white collar but I’ll reconsider now.

[@myboxingcoach]

Being informed is never a bad thing Paul. Thanks mate.

[@anthonylopez4728]

I've done a boxing workout for a long time, 49 years old and hopefully next year God willing I want to do a masters division amateur about. I have been watching your videos for a while and join a local gym and it's been helping me greatly I hope God willing I could do well when I compete hopefully next year. Thanks for all your help you're a God sent. From a young 49 year-old :-) in Ocala Florida.

[@markhassan6203]

Hi Ant, I’m 48 and have been doing boxing , BJJ and a little kickboxing on and off for the last 15-20 years. I’ve just decided I’d like to have an amateur fight after having a spinal fusion 12 months ago. I just thought your story sounded like mine. Good luck with your bout mate.

[@michaelnahum6782]

Very professional you can tell he takes pride in what he does.

[@billinom8s100]

Top video. I did UWCB a couple of years back, always wanted to have a go. Training was ALL cardio and shadow. First time there was any form of sparring was 2 weeks before the fight when a trainer fought you to asses you. On the night I ended up against a guy 10kgs heavier than me, who'd fought before and trained in MMA. Needless to say 2nd round it got stopped, THEN he punched me in the back of the head. Not what I was thinking it was about. Would have been nice to get some sparring in before the event. Total lack of concern. Nice to know the organisation has been noticed as failing to manage correctly.

[@Martitime]

Yes. That's my concern. There is no regulation. Everyone can say that he is inxperienced and freely join in . Then fight as a professional. We had an assessment and I saw more of people have strong background in amateurs boxing 🥊. I wouldn't like to involve in that

[@anythingfootball197]

Just cancelled my WCB bout and taking the Boxing Gym route. When my gut says this guy is right i dont argue. Thanks man

[@rudebwoy8]

Spot on Fran, I’ve done white collar and seen both good coaches and absolutely incompetent coaches. A great point that you make is that just because the coach may be a decorated ex-amateur/ pro, if they haven’t got the accredited coaching qualifications I wouldn’t go anywhere near them or their white collar sparring sessions.

[@myboxingcoach]

Cheers Jay. Glad that it came across I wasn't tarring everyone with the same brush, but having that knowledge will help make the right decisions. Thanks mate.

[@heatherrigby7371]

Brother, my dad was a Mechanic and he taught me a thing or two... but when our vehicles act up we take them to the shop we trust just down the road. They provide us with a service that will take us wherever we need to go without worry. If I were to become financially independent you could expect a knock on your door for training with the same mindset. Well and humbly done. Donnie

[@sydgough358]

Well said Fran ! Would love for you to do a Vlog !on a transition from boxer to coach.

[@myboxingcoach]

Good idea, gone on my list Ed.

[@The_boxing_hub]

Great advice fran, I’d also like to see a vid on the transition from boxer to coach, I’m on this journey myself after years of amateur competition I have now gone on and completed my lvl 1, and have come to realise there is so much more to being a coach other than giving instructions

[@hm163]

I’d rather box as an amateur and lose but make a good account of myself showing skill in a competitive bout than box in a white collar bout which is a farce which tends to happen a lot

[@gabrieljohannson6777]

Great video with sage advice and good warnings for people 'thinking' about entering a White Collar fight. After watching & listening to this there is no way I'd do it. I enjoy boxing training because its bloody hard & demanding. Does that mean I can box? No! Great video. Thanks Fran.

[@myboxingcoach]

That's a great attitude Gabriel. There's so much to gain from just training and learning. I've not took a head shot for over 15 years (except the odd stray one during pad sessions of my boxers). Do I miss it? Absolutely not!!!

[@Messy6610]

Sound advice and points well made, I have subscribed

[@funkstrummer2151]

Fran, I'm 38 years old and I started boxing at 35, yeah really. I chose to do a white collar last year simply to prove to myself that I can do it and to prove people wrong about me. Well, I got knocked on my backside in the 2nd round but I got up fought through to the final bell, although it was the toughest thing I have ever done. I was so spent it wasn't funny. The guy I fought is an ex-amatuer boxer with plenty of bouts under his belt. At 39 he is still fighting now and doing ok. So I was matched up agaisnt a guy who was way more experienced than me which meant I got put on my arse infront of 600 people including my friends and family. Humiliated!! So yes, it's not done fairly in some regards. I've seen some serious beatings in WCB over the last 3 years and it's a matter of time until someone is seriously hurt. There's too many "hard men" entering to have a fight and hurt someone, not put on a decent, clever display of boxing skill. For the record I am going at it again next September for one last go, only to right my wrong and repair my damaged pride. Like you say, it takes a long time to get into acceptable condition with the nessacery skills. So I am training hard with retired boxers who will set me on the right path this time.....the 8 weeks training they offer before fight night is a joke, a dangerous joke! Cheers Martyn

[@HittokiriBatosai]

Good luck, stay alive

[@funkstrummer2151]

@@HittokiriBatosai thanks, I'll try.

[@perrinekld7451]

Keep in mind that the advantage of old beginners is that you don't have damaged chin, even george foreman was still one of the most dangerous boxer at 49 (he almost beat shannon briggs). My advice is to avoid styles that require speedy combinations (it's for young ppl)

[@dahyacheva3949]

What is the date fight for your next fight m8

[@charlespackwood]

So true. This is pertinent to going into any type of gym. I visited an American karate gym and it got a little too competitive. ( I had learned boxing on an Army Camp: Camp King, Oberursel Germany. ) A green belt was smacking my arms pretty hard. He was just a teen. So I started wracking him back. Well, their whole gym started seeing me as an unwanted competitor. I really was there just to learn. Every place has a status quo and an unspoken code of doing things. American Karate has a strong Mormon sector. As such the people there may have an "us against the world mentality". I learned some martial arts from guy that was a sniper in the Army; the prevailing sense seemed like teaching someone that was on his side. You should know where people are coming from in that gym you are going to. For some it is exercise. For others it is a serious lifestyle. Some places don't mind seeing you get hurt, if you are not one of their crew & you have already signed a waiver. This is good to know, especially if your past experience has always been inclusive and nurturing. You can learn a lot from an antagonist, but in that environment, you should be darn near the best one in the room on any given day... and you shouldn't be paying money to get your ass whupped.

[@Phukayew]

I was a member at a similar scenario boxing gym. The coach didn’t care about who went into spar. I was really there to learn the sweet science. Well he kept putting me in with a guy who trained at the gym since the place opened. He was also 100+ lbs bigger than me. He worked with me a cpl weeks but then one day out of nowhere dude hits me with a huge body shot and broke my ribs. The coach did not give a single shit just kind of laughed and shrugged it off. Needless to say that was my last time there.

[@charlespackwood]

@@Phukayew The very worse is what such an experience can do to someone's heart. You can leave wondering if there is a legit deal, with desires to truly train and see someone develop. You can start seeing the bad because you are looking for it, whereas it used to be that it was all cool: it was all a new thing that you were really interested in. Well the good thing is that on the internet you can learn a lot before you even spar. You can compare information and see what fits true for you. Wish you the best, Damien.

[@monoperative]

A really illuminating video, and I agree that there are issues with the general concept of 'white collar' boxing, but I think that, as with most things, participants can have very different experiences. I took part in a white collar bout a year ago, and was very lucky to have dealt with one of the better companies out there. I was trained by a certified boxing coach, matched fairly, and medically assessed before and after the bout. Having enjoyed my initial foray into boxing, I decided to step up into 'semi-pro' (I don't like that term either), sticking with the same coach. I've had a further 3 fights, and have continued to be well looked after. Having attended nights put on by other promotions, I've begun to realise how fortunate I was, as some of them have been absolute horror shows, with their 'coaches' showing little regard for fighter safety or fair matchmaking. I'm planning on participating in a few more fights before I call it a day, and unlike some, I'm fully aware of the gulf in skill which separates the likes of me from proper boxers, but overall I'm really enjoying the experience, and am keen to continue studying the art of boxing and improving my abilities. I think that if anyone is considering getting into white collar, then doing their research really is vital.

[@myboxingcoach]

Hello Arthur. I was hoping that someone was going to post a comment like yours. There are some good outfits operating and I'm glad that you have found one. Keep enjoying your game mate, I'm really grateful that you took time to comment.

[@monoperative]

@@myboxingcoach I hadn't realised how brilliant boxing is before I signed up, makes me wish I'd started training ten years ago! While I've got your ear, I'd like to give you massive kudos for the work you do, your videos are like gold dust to a novice like me!

[@douglastaggart9360]

I am a Registered ABA boxer totally unimpressed I boxed in a white collar event and everyone knew I'd boxed in the army and 27 amateur fights but no one realised the gap in experience.i had too go three rounds basically sparring. Because I could have stopped the lad In 1st round. If I'd have known how inexperienced my opponent was I wouldn't have taken part.

[@bardenostle7922]

I had my first white collar fight a few month ago for charity and while there was medical staff around ect i think there wasnt much thought into my opponent and i walked it and won in under a minuet thinking back now it was a complete mismatch and a regret from a personal perspective

[@braindrain8922]

Respect your honesty

[@BOwner101]

Thank you for your advice as I was about to sign up and start the training for a white collar event in the NW Having listened to your advice I’m now looking at learning the art of boxing in a more controlled and regulated environment. Thank you for your valuable advice and I’ll let you know how it goes.

[@ads021984]

For anyone considering white collar, whether unlicensed or charity, this is very good information and advice. I did one white collar charity event, which I must say was well managed by a very good local amateur gym. However, I agree with Frans, you cannot teach a complete novice to box in 10-12 weeks. I saw the ugly side of unlicensed boxing when I went to a local boxing (non AIBA, but heavily involved in the unlicensed stuff) gym to get some coaching. I was coached by an ex pro boxer who seemed competent and knowledgeable to start with. However, my first spar was with someone who had competed in many amateur fights and just turned pro. It was a beating. Looking back, it left me concussed for two days. At the time I just saw it as part of the training (knowing what its like to get buzzed and showing determination to get through) but looking back it was clearly a mismatch. I stuck with it until I sparred with a guy whose knuckles I could feel through his gloves. The were old and cheap 14oz gloves (the type Sports Direct sell for not much money) that had just deteriorated over time. When I raised it I got told to just get on with it. I packed my stuff an left and never went back. In the background to this I could see people being bullied and pushed into unlicensed fights that they clearly didn't want to do. I've been to one of these events and it was quite impressive. Held in a stadium, well attended and organised. But it is driven by people wanting to make money out it, so motives need to be questioned. I've no doubt this is the same at professional level, probably more so given the financial rewards, but as Fran points out, without someone applying control and oversight it can be dangerous.

[@artgold8593]

Thanks for this. I took up boxing quite recently (aged 60) as a means to get fit, while learning something beyond counting times or weights, and to complement my EMDR therapy. I had no intention of fighting necessarily, but when I get the gloves on, I feel like I want to get at it. I have a fab coach and he echoes everything you say (or the other way round). Point being - this is a fantastic sport to be involved with, even at my advanced age, but proper coaching and realistic aspirations are key. If I never get to fight, so be it, but if I do, I'll be properly prepared and matched.

[@paulmaupin7570]

You are the kind of coach I would send my son to learn from! Thanks for all your hard work!

[@robdegregorio6508]

Thanks coach. You're a man of integrity.

[@albaptboxercise7508]

I started my martial arts journey nearly 40 years ago in which time I have seen some really well organised bouts/competitions, and some appalling ones. The last one was such a nice, well run tournament I almost wanted to come out of retirement! For now I'll stick to coaching Boxing Fitness & Boxercise. This is a great video for me to share with people who are looking to make the next step into a world of combat. Keep up the good work online, I love receiving your emails!

[@myboxingcoach]

Cheers pal, great comment. I love Boxercise and all it stands for. A great program overseen by a great man in Andy and all his Instructors really invest in their classes. You're doing great work.

[@kevinell6605]

Just found this channel, top top advice and information. I've boxed and kickboxed in a few of these shows and you are right. I'm too old nowadays but I kick myself that I didn't walk into an amateur boxing gym in my youth and took up the noble art properly. Great channel, top advice !!

[@myboxingcoach]

Thanks Kevin. A mixed bag in terms of how these things are run isn't it.

[@kevinell6605]

Poles apart Fran .....poles apart

[@garyfrost9679]

I tried a uwcb event at 38 years old to raise a bit of money for cancer research, I have a fighting background from younger years and had my eye on who I thought I’d like to fight , I was suprised when the match ups took place as they clearly had there favoured match ups the remaining contenders where just put together without any regard of experience or size/weight difference, on the night most of the training went out the window and most looked like they where in a pub brawl just looking to take someone’s head off in front of there family and friends, I had a decent fight and it looked like two boxers thankfully as I was looking to win and it was a charity event, I wasn’t looking to hospitalise somebody, so if your a novice enter with caution, there was a pre and post medical check as last think you want is to get in there with someone coked off there nut looking to kill you , it’s a great experience but if you feel you’ve been unfairly mismatched then do yourself a favour and say something as they will listen there decision isn’t final until the the night , one more thing , I thought the sparing was brief over 10 weeks it was mainly cardio so for anyone who hasn’t stepped between the ropes on the night it will be a shock taking your first proper punch , good luck but if your young and are interested in boxing do it properly and find a decent amateur gym and get licensed.

[@myboxingcoach]

Right on the money there Gary - great bit of insight and great advice.

[@jgamez5023]

This was really educational, Fran. I never really thought about a lot of things you mentioned. Appreciate it!

[@MazzaProductions2019]

Great video! One of our athletes first white collar fight has just been uploaded to our channel!

[@areyounotentertained9499]

Very well spoken.

[@danielpatrick3761]

You're a class act Fran. Thanks for these vids.

[@Treeman196]

Very good advice although I love boxing I will stick to the training and going on the bags they don't hit back .

[@myboxingcoach]

:-) - That's why I love using the bag John!

[@kufux9362]

As a beginner this video was better than any punching video I've learned from by anyone on KZbin

[@BruceLeroyUK]

First time viewer of the channel. This video made me subscribe.

[@80077655]

This guy speaks the truth.

[@robroyMcK]

Excellent video. Thank you very much for sharing. More people need to see this before getting involved in Boxing.

[@Leo-yn5fx]

Put a smile on my face seeing a notification from you :)

[@andrewd9037]

Thank you for this video. I was trying to say to a friend recently that it can be more dangerous and you have outlined the reasons clearly.

[@anthonylopez4728]

You're the best coach that I've seen so far on KZbin, I tip my hat off to you sir God bless.

[@Billyboy54321]

I boxed year's ago with Walter McGowan was my trainer that was 20 odd years ago i would love to do it again

[@myboxingcoach]

Walter McGowan - what a boxer 👌

[@CaptPostmod]

I don't really know much about the two types of "White Collar Boxing" you're discussing here. I thought maybe this would be about what I'm involved in. Around the States, we have a lot of boxing gyms that don't compete or even spar. These range widely. On one end are gyms that offer fairly authentic boxing coaching and training, but you only ever hit bags and mits and the worse you get hit with is a pool noodle during roll drills, etc. Then on the other end are gyms with a boxing theme that are really just cardio workout places with maybe a little strength training thrown in and no even fighting principals taught. I'm a member at the first kind where we have coaches who have legit competed in boxing matches and do try their best to train us as if we were going to be in a match at some point. But we all know we never will be. It's helped me lose tons of weight and build lots of muscle and it's fun. But I do wonder how more legitimate boxers view it. Obviously, I'm just a poser. But I'm a poser who really can throw a quick, strong combo and is having fun getting in shape.

[@Xx4ReAcTiiOnZxX]

Definitely not a poser! I'm glad there are gyms out there that teach how to throw a punch or two without the headaches. There are a lot of people who cant afford to get hit repeatedly in the body or head. If you like it than I dont see why anyone's opinion should matter, and you know if it gets too boring you could always try your hand at sparring!

[@leebush4053]

I did a WC boxing. Medical on night of fight. Trainer insisted participants attended 2/3 of sessions. Gum shields including in training mandatory. Wrapped hands or gel inner gloves. Head guards and 16oz gloves. Skills coached were the skills you describe and standard defence. No parrying or Mayweather shoulder rolling. Single coaching team who watch and pair boxers. Pre fight low contact sparring to aid match up. Fitness and skill levels were monitored. Yes down side is it wont be set to weight and age. I saw the coach dismiss two participants for being too advanced and not fit or skilled enough. Boxing can never be 100% safe. I lost my bout. He was too big. Too strong. I didn't feel unsafe or over matched. Had my moments in the fight. I would do it again under those conditions.

[@wok3n203]

i started at 45 i regret not starting earlier so bit late for me to go amateur route so i looked at white collar then found out i had a tumour so was a no go with a plate now in my head . i do watch the lads training white collar i get jelous as i am sure i would do well but hey ho . so i turned to coaching next best thing i reckon

[@myboxingcoach]

Glad you stuck with it. You will now be adding HUGE value to young boxers...well done sir👍

[@rootsandvulture]

Awesome video Fran. I wrote a massive comment on how much this applies to my experience, my phone deleted it! Prob best as I could rabbit on about this for days. It took me ages to realise why I didn't really enjoy my experience of White collar. If you are being put into sparring situations which are uncontrolled or you come away feeling like shit as u been used as a walking punch bag something has gone wrong, walk away and go to someone like Fran. Learning to box and white collar are two different things,

[@myboxingcoach]

I hate phones! I hope at least that you have kept up the training. I've not been head in the head in over 15 years...I don't miss it but still love to hit the bag :-) . Thanks for the comment pal, much appreciated

[@rootsandvulture]

@@myboxingcoach well actually, the most enjoyment Ive had so far was after the white collar when I purchased your Boxing Training Foundation and worked through all the drills etc. I went to a proper boxing gym today and was told I had a "nice right hand" which I was was pleased with (maybe a little too much lol)... which I 100% put down to you and BTF. So thanks Fran

[@jtdata622]

Hi Fran Trying to get further than pad work and get ready to spar. I was thinking of Muay Thai to get involved more because I’m 45 and most clubs including mine only look after kids. I suppose that’s why most adults go white collar etc. Totally thinking twice after this vid, wish there were clubs looking after adults who want to be looked after properly🤔 Your never to old to learn but seems so in adult boxing👊

[@myboxingcoach]

Hello JT. Yes, it is a shame you know. Age should be no barrier, especially nowadays when generally speaking people stay healthier for longer. Maybe things will change, I certainly hope so.

[@rezamirkhani4747]

Thanks for sharing your valuable advice! I think you just saved a lot of lives (including mine) about the dangerous state of affairs with wcb

[@myboxingcoach]

Thank you Reza

[@thebeast-bd9db]

The boxing league you have is something i would be interested in, ik your located in the 🇬🇧 but im looking for a white collar boxing for all colors and people with mental health problems and little guy like myself who just want to be apart of the boxing world

[@emes823]

U r a great coach! Good to come back to some of your vids after a few years and take another look. Greting from Poland. All the best Fran Sands ;)

[@Tree_Surgeon87]

So I started when I was 14 it took me 2 years to get my first fight. I competed in amateurs in my early twenties. I'm now 36 5 stone heavier, also loads of wear and tear. I thought about training for masters in amateurs but can't train as much as I Need to, to be a amateur boxer. So.ive decided to fight in white collar plus i get to give money to charity. I've signed up for one and they asked if I had experience I told them the truth as I think I afight should always be fair. They just said that I would have to compete with someone who has had a couple of white collar fights. So I've signed up for January and tye 8 weeks training starts November

[@oB_Session]

Hi Fran, I just found your channel and I'm so glad I have. You have superb content. When I watch your videos, I know I am getting legit advice and coaching from a professional. You deserve millions of subscribers. A big thank you from Miami, Florida.

[@lionking37.]

Great video Fran. Really interesting points that I hadn't really thought of before. I had a uwcb boxing match 3 years ago and lost on points to a guy about 2-3 stone heavier and I have really struggled to deal with the loss since (silly really I know I'm not a pro) I have been thinking about signing up again but this video has made me think twice. I may just crack on at my local club and try and have amateur bouts through them if possible. Keep up the good work 🥊

[@myboxingcoach]

The amateur route would be my recommendation. Don't be hard on yourself. The decision went against you, big deal. You got up there and walked the walk...many don't.

[@lionking37.]

@@myboxingcoach Cheers Fran 👍🏻

[@busplay]

Great breakdown and discussion.....only found your channel a week ago and i'm really enjoying the content, great work Fran Cheers!

[@myboxingcoach]

Thank you and welcome to the channel ;-)

[@KaliKickboxingBath]

Well said Fran, 10 (core) skills executed well is much better than 40 skills executed poorly! Also I wonder how many students/fighters consider the responsibility of their coach in relation to safety (for all involved)?

[@myboxingcoach]

Agree...on both counts!

[@daviddonoughue4316]

Said this before on one of Frans videos. Very knowledge man in the boxing circle. Brilliant watch Fran

[@djchill1765]

I agree safety is important. In fact I agreed with everything you said, up until you said, No chance of learning hooks and upper cuts in a 12 week period? I learnt both a lot quicker and quickly adapted as I’ve done other martial arts and used them to my advantage in fighting in under 12 weeks, I also think a beginner could learn in 12 weeks if shown correctly and thoroughly practised. I just watched a white collar bout, first one found in a search and the guy who threw only 1,2’s mainly just 2’s, got annihilated by the guy throwing all punches, so I have to disagree that the guy just throwing one twos would win (of course it depends on the fighter). For safety reasons if I was a beginner I would want to find a coach that would show me everything and then ask him to help me with what I’m best at. Some people are better at throwing other punches to their advantage than just jabs and crosses even though they are harder punches to learn, everyone’s body is different and adapt at a different rate

[@Martitime]

This video comes randomly exactly on time. Just wanted to know how real fight looks like. Box is box, well said. Yesterday we had video conference with the coach . I think 2 hours per week is not enough for 8 weeks to be ready. Also noticed that many people have pictures from the ring. Not looking amateurs fairly fight based on skills. Everyone easily can say that never has touch with boxing 🥊. Thanks for your honesty advice. I think to skip this risk and join to krav maga training instead or amateurs boxing in town. Just noticed that all clubs are not involved in that. It's make me big red light blinking in my head .

[@myboxingcoach]

Good, I'm glad that this was timely for you Martin. 8 weeks, wow, that's the shortest prep period I've heard of. Krav or the amateur gyms (I can pretty much guarantee you'll be looked after there).

[@karolspeight1968]

Great advice. Am considering doing one on the 29th April.

[@shaun1552]

Bloody hell, you look like the guy who does the 'Precision Striking' videos, check it out. Good advice by the way, thanks for the video

[@mahmoudelkaddour4304]

Always love your videos,keep them coming, thxs for sharing MR fran sands

[@mahmoudelkaddour4304]

Wanted to ask you Mr sands what's your opinion on doing weights(heavy) is it good for boxing or does it slow u down

[@Rillik2]

perfect time, school just went out for me

[@manojpatel1332]

Great vid Fran....thank you for sharing.

[@Steve-wg4kp]

i love your videos. very informative. thank you so much for all your hard work and your willingness to share!

[@The-General36]

Excellent content ! Extremely well put and very helpful 👍🥊

[@andy_preston]

Thank you Fran. This is helpful and interesting for me as a latecomer novice. Andy

[@myboxingcoach]

Glad it was helpful Andy

[@Bodybuddha]

I won my white collar boxing match because of Frans youtube videos lol

[@harveybetts6106]

What a sensible man👍🏻

[@mezzmezzrow426]

Really great video, Fran. Thanks for taking the time to share your knowledge.

[@myboxingcoach]

Thank you Mezz

[@gfuentes8449]

had a motivational speaker come who revealed he competed in white collar events as an olympian. All said proudly with a straight face - he didn't even grasp the unfairness

[@bradmckee4323]

My trainer broke my rib before my first fight. I didn't even know it till a couple days later. Still fought with it broken, but didn't get hit there. It took over 6 months to heal. Wasn't painful unless i was lifting something like weights.

[@Icemanr85]

Nice one Fran. Got my first white collar in 3 weeks aged 36. Will move and go with straight shots

[@myboxingcoach]

Good luck Ricky

[@Icemanr85]

@@myboxingcoach top man

[@Icemanr85]

@@myboxingcoach fight night tomo at super heavyweight

[@Icemanr85]

I won my bout Fran. Thanks

[@Japanese_one_Tokyo]

Imagine boxing seriously for 15 years and then pretending your a novice and entering a white collar boxing match matched against a guy that’s only been training for 8-12 weeks? Lol This is so risky lol

[@chutchy107]

and you can guarantee it has happened, its down to the persons mentality.

[@ji-di7zr]

@@chutchy107 I'm my white collar event there was a speech at the start about how if anyone faked it, they would notice. I had my doubts and when some people were miss matched it was a bit obvious

[@barebasics]

My mate who’s never had a fight in his life fought for white collar Bolton on Saturday he was matched up against a lad who’s an undefeated mma fighter who fighting for a belt in March... my mate got outclassed and toyed with. White collar is corrupt and all about money

[@rafailzintro929]

@@barebasics who was the mma lad?

[@antichris78]

I’ve had a couple people suggest i have a white collar fight. After watching this it’s a firm NO. Cheers Fran.

[@myboxingcoach]

As long as you are informed Chris, that's all I wanted. I don't want to unnecessarily deter people but it is a big step to take.

[@zxzxddxxdgrddgtrdew1784]

Had another bad day today. Saw you had put another video up and everything feels good again. Love your videos especially the stories from your personal experience. Might have to come to Liverpool and have some sessions with you

[@myboxingcoach]

Glad it contributed to turning a bad day good. Thanks James

[@highestsettings]

I'm doing ultra white collar boxing in July. I'm very much looking forward to it I won't lie, I'm excited to get in the ring and take on this massive challenge. I'm taking it as seriously as I possibly can, because while I do want to have fun and I am excited to do this, I also don't want to get hurt or to seriously hurt anyone else (I say "seriously hurt" because this is boxing and at the end of the day, at least one of us is going to get hurt on some level, can't really get around that fact). I want to get fit, I want to dedicate myself to a challenge, I want to test myself, all of that. But none of that is worth putting lives on the line. Has anyone here got experience with UWCB? From what I can tell there will be a full medical staff there, a medical exam before and after the fight, I have to fill out a PAR-Q questionnaire, I will have access to private health insurance, they say that we'll be matched to an even opponent in terms of weight, experience and ability (though I don't know how they'll know if someone is lying to get an easy fight). From what I can tell, it all looks to be on the up and up. I've read about a death at one of their events in Leicester though, which is an absolute tragedy and gives me some hesitation. So if anyone here has done this with them, I would really appreciate your opinion on the matter.

[@khalsa0072]

hi there mate I'm doing one in July aswell nervous as fuck tbh with u, some days thinking about pulling out

[@JamesLehartProductions]

From experience a lot of the White Collar promoters cut corners. They don't have ambulances on standby, which as per BBBofC rules is an absolute MUST (Since Watson vs Eubank 2). The so called "medical staff" tend to be St John Ambulance, whilst they are medically trained, they are not specifically trained for combat sports. There are certain aspects a proper combats sports medic needs to be looking out for. Medicals are never done before and after fights... I've seen some dodgy things in my time being around this sport. The different between "white collar" please do not call it "semi-pro" there is no such thing as semi pro, theres White Collar, amauter and then professional. One thing that also ticks me off is someone winning a micky mouse belt in white collar then claiming to be "champion" go fight any amauter boxer and I can gaurentee they'll punish you.... with ease

[@cookiemacable]

wha u hav said abow this is so exact an made me think abow the next fight an previous ones i hav done i always wanted to box bu never got to do it until i seen the ads for white collar this was my only chance to get in the ring abow to do this again for my last an final time i thought i was just shit at boxing an cant tk it in bu it takes so much more to learn boxing from a begginer 8 weeks an was in the ring a complete show up an hurt me mentally it tks a long time to prepare to get in the ring to tk a blow an return it the 10 skills an the 2 main things to no an do is my guide now also the beginners kit is wha we will master in 8 weeks u r a decent coach an a man of true words fran sands wish u were near us in cardiff bu we hav wha u hav put up also it the only sense i hav heard an seen an worth watching your advice an guidence videos r easy to follow an understand plus wha u say i can relate to it aint bullshit boxing is the hardest an lonliest sport there is it tks so much more to b a boxer it will beat u down trying an to fail an giv up after giving all u got to giv is somthing u dont ever recover from will let u no how we get on an will also add u to the live stream tha get streamed out by ringmaster on fight night

[@2msvalkyrie529]

Respect for laying it on the line as honesty as you did. Win or lose , your Self Respect and Courage can never be doubted. And these are things you can't put a price on.

[@Vixolation]

Where can I find your gym bud? Loved the video and I just watched a few others and would love to learn from you in person as I’m looking to restart my boxing journey

[@goofball9292]

Thank you, learned some different but useful things from this video, 👌

[@kaiserkoba]

I know you dont like talking about modern fights since May vs Pac but are you going to do a video about GGG vs Canelo 2 ?

[@myboxingcoach]

:-) Just rewatching fight number 1 as we speak. The next bout is on my birthday so if I get time I'll put something together...hopefully it will be less of a dickhead magnet than when I talk about Mayweather. As long as no-one asks me to watch the fight back in slow motion again... :-)

[@Leo-yn5fx]

Fran Sands Do videos like that Fran. We’d like to hear your opinion on pro fighters and fights too in video format

[@Syndication1234]

Brilliant video! This really helped coach. Have your views changed on white collar boxing and is it possible to make an updated video?

[@myboxingcoach]

Thank you. Mmm, not sure they have really. I just always advise caution just because there's no governing body as such overseeing. So, bit more of a gamble as to whether you end up with a good well run outfit or not.

[@braindrain8922]

I have a friends son who fought a white collar bout last year and the difference in weight between the two fighters was disgusting

[@markneri011182]

Awesome content again. Thanks coach!

[@Callum-wt2yf]

Really appreciate this video, very educational and very honest. Gives me a little faith and a little knowledge when gauging my next coach. (I’m in burton upon Trent If you have any recommendations) subscribed 👌

[@tueemsyhu4846]

REAL KNOWLEDGE😀😁👌👊👊👍

[@Batman13167]

I loved what you talked about at 11.46, getting bingoed in the first couple weeks. That's what I experienced, put up to 'spar with a guy it turned out had multiple cage fights under his belt, and I was supportively pushed back into the whirlwind by the coach. I carried on an was lucky enough to be matched with someone quite normal and we made it to points at the end, but I saw so many 1 shot knockouts and brutal liver shots dragging people off stage. It took a while after that to get back into the spirit of boxing, I went to a different gym but same owner, and left with a black eye and a flat nose on the first night. After that I went to a real boxing gym but was told they didn't want to waste a bag on someone who just wants to exercise when there's kids needing this place etc. I feel like a bit of a flannel as it is boxing after all, but it seems impossible to find a decent place like Fran's.

[@myboxingcoach]

Feel shit for you mate. Your first 2 experiences are God awful - just sends a shiver. I do understand the attitude of the amateur boxing club, we open our place up on non-boxing nights to let guys off the street train, that works quite well. On boxing nights though we do have a similar rule although I would never dream telling someone 'No' in the way you were told. You know what mate, go to my site (www.myboxingcoach.com), sign up for the ebook and drop me an email, will help you build some knowledge with the vids etc. that I can send you.

[@Batman13167]

Thanks for the reply, yeah I understood the tack of the ABC and still left respecting how they taught, but it was a bit like stepping into the 1920s before betting black balled haha. I've got your foundation course that I need to get back into as well.

[@myboxingcoach]

Ahh right, you're already on my crew. Drop me an email Alex, I'll sort you out with some new stuff.

[@Batman13167]

Awesome cheers, I'll get on it

[@simon-peterscullion7328]

Thank you for your advice!

[@shamkhaliq682]

Thanks for the info👍,I find white collar just a money making scheme(the charity event ones) i was thinking of taking it up due to being biy older instead amatuer,but i decided to go back to amatuer boxing instead aint as you can box upto the age of 40 now in the amatuers.Aint trained for a while but hopefully start back up soon and see how i get on.

[@myboxingcoach]

Excellent idea Sham

[@StoutProper]

sham khaliq ha ha so if you're over 40 it's a bit late to start amateur boxing then! 😂

[@shamkhaliq682]

Guinness who said am over 40?

[@StoutProper]

sham khaliq not you, me 😂

[@shamkhaliq682]

Guinness o'dear😢,Only thing i can think of if your try white coller out but not them chairty boxing white coller,And see how you get on.A few fighters have boxed white collar and then got a pro licence after.

[@tajwalikhan9995]

This just came at the right time while considering doing my 3rd white collar event 👍

[@myboxingcoach]

Well you have some experience Tajwali. It's not intended to deter anyone from taking part, but I just think that being informed can only help.

[@tajwalikhan9995]

@@myboxingcoach Thank you coach, my first fight was a draw and my second was a very poor performace by me as was a TKO in the second round. I do miss the training its very intense and a lot of people do drop out over the 8 week period as they think the training is easy.

[@myboxingcoach]

Yep, boxing training often does have that effect! :-) Well done for persevering.

[@cookiemacable]

champions for charity we doing now 8 weeks training i boxed 4 cancer research an twice help for heros we hav got an amazeing coach he has so many years experiance an has an active gym for years an a team of trainers all licensed an experianced an he do all he need to do bu we just need some advice cant lose this shit again an u r right it tks more time than we hav