Origin of the Philly Shield

Before the Philly Shield was used by boxers such as; Archie Moore, Pernell Whitaker, James Toney, Floyd Mayweather Sr, and Floyd Mayweather Jr. A local Philadelphian boxer name George Benton put his stamp on what is known as the Philly Shield.

The Philly Shield is also known as the Shoulder Roll or/and the Michigan Style.

One of the earliest trainers who taught the Philly Shield was Andrew Ford. Second to Mr. Ford was George Benton. Mr Benton was a former professional Boxer from Philly with a career spanning from 1949 to the 1970s. Benton was a pioneer who went to local Philadelphia Boxing Gyms, developing the Shoulder Roll alongside other Philadelphia Gym Rats.

After ending his Boxing career. Benton decided to become a boxing Trainer. He introduced the Philly Shield to Pernell Whitaker, a professional Boxer from Virginia. Floyd Mayweather was influenced by Pernell Whitaker use of the Philly Shield. George Benton would teach the Philly Shield to numerous Boxers, who trained under him.

The shoulder roll is a defensive technique used to offset the momentum of an opponent punches. It's boxing Stance causes the lead shoulder to protect the chin and act as a shield. In addition, it can preserve stamina, while allowing the boxer who use it to counter punches quickly. It also provides a quick escape route.

Although the Philly Shield is an old school defensive guard, it is still relevant today. However, prior to the Mayweather Jr era, it wasn't so popular as it is today. Mayweather Jr. dominated Pacquiao, Canelo, De La Hoya, and Corrales using the Philly Shield. James Toney, studied Jersey Joe Walcott and Ezzard Charles utilization of the Philly Shield.

Philly Shield Formation and Utilization

The lead hand can be paced on the torso, while the rear hand is placed on the solar plexus. Make sure the rear hand is in front of your chin. Roll with the lead hand and block jabs with your shoulder. The lead forearm will protect the body from jabs. Your lead elbow will protect the body from hooks. Consequently, the rear hand will protect the face from hooks and jabs. Thus, the Philly Shield work well for athletic people with great reflexes.

George Benton

George Benton was called the Uncrowded Champ. He was known for his elusive defense and uses of the shoulder roll. During the 1950s and 1960s Benton become a trainer for Spinks, Holyfield, and Pernell "Sweet Pea" Whitaker.

Although, George Benton stamped the Philly Shield Defense. Floyd Mayweather Jr added subtle variations, creative angles, masterful counter punches, and elusive footwork to the Shoulder Roll Defense.

The Philly Shield was originally used for resting, while keeping defense tight. However, Mayweather Jr put art into it. There are minor variations between what is known as the Shoulder Roll, Michigan Style, or Philly Shield.

Philly Shield Variations

I'm going to elaborate on different forms and variations Floyd Mayweather Jr contributed to the Philly Shield. Usually fighters keep their knees straight when using the Philly Shield. However, Floyd bend his knees for mobility and flexibility for dips and pull aways. Floyd keeps his lead shoulder directly in front of him for catching and deflecting jabs. He usually counter with a cross. The art and unique variation Floyd added to the Philly Shield is call the Mayweather Shell.

Conclusion

The origins of the Philly Shield is debatable amongst Boxing Historians. Philly Gym Rats and the renowned Philly Boxer George Benton are incredited for the creation and formation of what is known as the Philly Shield. The Philly Shield enables Boxer to block body shots with the lead hand and back hand parry; straight shots and hooks.

In regards to offense, the Shoulder Roll Defense can counter off the lead shoulder or back hand. Before incorporating the Philly Shield it is advised to have great skills and solid reflexes. High guard defense requires more energy. Therefore, the Philly Shield is a better preservation of energy during defense. In the 20th century, the Philly Shield was originally developed for resting during sparring sessions at local Boxing Gyms in Philadelphia.

(1984 USA OLYMPIC BOXING TEAM)

A legendary USA Olympic Boxing Coach, Al Mitchell. Claims George Benton was the first Boxer he ever saw using the Philly Shield. George Benton later became a Boxing Trainer for the 1984 USA Olympic Boxing Team. He also became a Boxing Trainer Hall-of-Famer.

© Marquis R Davis

October 23, 2024