Originally Posted by
R Clausnitzer
Hi, James
Whilst Kostya remains primarily an outstanding western boxer, it would be wrong, imo, to assume that his association with Lawrence Lee, over a nine year period, has been limited to iron palm training to overcome weaknesses in the wrists.
Common sense would suggest that there have been exchanges of ideas and techniques. I can give you two actual examples. I have a great colour photo of Lawrence readying Kostya as he is about to deliver a WC 1" punch to a cloth covered frying pan (!) supported by a book, held by a bemused looking third party, in what looks like Lawrence's kitchen. Also, in his last fight when he ko'd or tko'd his American opponent in a return match, Kostya included in his finishing punches a technique that Lawrence had taught him and that Lawrence was quite excited about.
I still recall my students, many years ago, asking me as I arrived whether I had seen this new Russian born boxer in the news who fought in a very "aggressive and direct, Wing Chun like style".
My point is that Wing Chun concepts AND basic punching can be incorporated successfully into western boxing. This is happening right now here in WA, although still in the developmental stages. It would take too long to explain it all, but it will all become clearer in the next 12 months, as this form of hybrid boxing becomes better known.
Regards.
Rolf