Boxing is a sport that has been around for centuries and has produced some of the most iconic athletes in history. From Muhammad Ali to Mike Tyson, boxing has captured the attention of millions of fans around the world. For those who want to delve deeper into the world of boxing, there’s no better way than through books.
Whether you’re a fan of the sport or an aspiring boxer, there are countless books that offer insight into the history, techniques, and personalities of boxing. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.
When looking for the best boxing books, it’s important to consider the author’s credentials and experience in the sport. A book written by a former boxer or coach will likely offer more valuable insights than one written by a casual fan. Additionally, the book’s focus should align with your interests, whether that be a biography of a specific boxer or a technical guide to training.
We’ve spent hours researching and reading through the top boxing books on the market to identify the ones that offer the most comprehensive and engaging perspectives on the sport.
Best Boxing Books
We have compiled a list of the best boxing books for those who are passionate about the sport and want to learn more about its history, techniques, and the lives of legendary boxers. Whether you are an amateur or a professional boxer, a fan of the sport, or just looking for an inspiring read, our list has got you covered. These books offer a unique perspective on the sport, and we are confident that you will find them informative, engaging, and entertaining. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best boxing books.
Championship Fighting: Explosive Punching and Aggressive Defense
If you’re looking to improve your boxing skills, Championship Fighting: Explosive Punching and Aggressive Defense is a must-read.
Pros
- Provides a unique perspective on punching techniques
- Teaches the fundamentals of boxing
- Easy to understand and follow
Cons
- Some of the techniques are outdated
- Lacks information on footwork and defense
- Not suitable for advanced boxers
As someone who has read the book, we highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in boxing. The author, Jack Dempsey, is a legendary boxer who shares his knowledge and experience in this book. The book is easy to read and follow, making it perfect for beginners.
One of the pros of this book is that it provides a unique perspective on punching techniques. Dempsey’s approach to punching is different from what is commonly taught, and it can be a game-changer for anyone looking to improve their punching skills.
Another pro is that the book teaches the fundamentals of boxing. It covers everything from stance to footwork to punching techniques. It’s a great resource for anyone who is just starting out in boxing.
However, there are some cons to this book. Some of the techniques are outdated, and may not be applicable in modern boxing. Additionally, the book lacks information on footwork and defense, which are important aspects of boxing. Finally, the book is not suitable for advanced boxers, as it focuses mainly on the basics.
In conclusion, if you’re a beginner looking to improve your boxing skills, Championship Fighting: Explosive Punching and Aggressive Defense is a great resource. It provides a unique perspective on punching techniques and teaches the fundamentals of boxing in an easy-to-understand manner. However, if you’re an advanced boxer, you may want to look for more advanced resources.
The Cus D’Amato Mind: Learn The Simple Secrets That Took Boxers Like Mike Tyson To Greatness (The Champion’s Mind)
If you’re a boxing enthusiast looking to improve your mental game, The Cus D’Amato Mind is a great resource.
Pros
- Provides a unique perspective on fear and anxiety
- Offers insights into the mindset of successful boxers
- Short and easy to read
Cons
- Some of the advice may be common sense for experienced boxers
- Limited in scope – primarily focused on the mental game
- Relatively short at only 100 pages
This book delves into the mind of legendary boxing trainer Cus D’Amato, offering readers a glimpse into the mindset of successful boxers. The book provides a unique perspective on fear and anxiety, arguing that these emotions can be harnessed to propel boxers to greatness. While some of the advice may be common sense for experienced boxers, the book offers valuable insights into the mental game of boxing.
The Cus D’Amato Mind is a short and easy read, clocking in at just 100 pages. While this brevity is a plus for some readers, others may find the book to be limited in scope. The book is primarily focused on the mental game of boxing, and doesn’t offer much in the way of technical advice.
Overall, if you’re looking to improve your mental game as a boxer, The Cus D’Amato Mind is definitely worth checking out. However, if you’re looking for a more comprehensive guide to the sport, you may want to look elsewhere.
Greatest Boxing Stories Ever Told
If you’re a boxing fan or just love a good story, then the Greatest Boxing Stories Ever Told is a must-read.
Pros
- Incredible tales from the ring
- Well-researched and interesting stories
- Classic sampling of great stories in boxing
Cons
- Mediocre read
- Maybe a bit more about the fights themselves was needed
- Highlight is Frank DeFord’s SI article on Billy Conn
We found this book to be a great value at the price. The book was exactly as advertised and delivered in a timely fashion. The stories are well-written and well-researched, and provide a great glimpse into the world of boxing. One of the highlights of the book is Frank DeFord’s SI article on Billy Conn, originally titled the “Boxer and The Blonde”. However, we did find that the book was a bit lacking in terms of the fights themselves.
Overall, we would recommend this book to anyone who loves boxing or just enjoys a good story. It’s a classic sampling of great stories in boxing and a must-read for sweet science scholars.
Family, Gangsters & Champions: Boxer Tony Canzoneri’s Life & World
If you’re a boxing enthusiast or just looking for a good read, we highly recommend Family, Gangsters & Champions: Boxer Tony Canzoneri’s Life & World.
Pros
- A fascinating account of Tony Canzoneri’s life and career.
- The book is well-written and engaging.
- The author does an excellent job of capturing the atmosphere of boxing in the early 20th century.
Cons
- The book is relatively short at only 236 pages.
- Some readers may be disappointed that the book focuses exclusively on Tony Canzoneri and doesn’t cover other boxers of the era.
- The book is only available in paperback.
We thoroughly enjoyed reading Family, Gangsters & Champions: Boxer Tony Canzoneri’s Life & World. The book provides a captivating look at the life and career of one of boxing’s greatest champions. The author’s writing style is engaging and informative, making it an easy read for both casual fans and serious boxing enthusiasts.
One of the things we appreciated about the book was the author’s attention to detail. The book provides a vivid picture of what life was like for boxers in the early 20th century, including the challenges they faced both in and out of the ring. The author also does an excellent job of capturing Tony Canzoneri’s personality and character, making him come alive on the page.
Overall, we highly recommend Family, Gangsters & Champions: Boxer Tony Canzoneri’s Life & World to anyone with an interest in boxing or sports biography. The book is a fascinating read that provides a unique look at one of boxing’s greatest champions.
Boxing on the Cobbles: Boxing skills for self defence and martial arts
If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide to boxing skills for self defense and martial arts, then Boxing on the Cobbles is a great option.
Pros
- Easy-to-follow instructions
- Suitable for beginners
- Comprehensive guide
Cons
- Limited number of pages
- Only available in paperback format
- May not be suitable for experienced boxers
Boxing on the Cobbles is a great resource for anyone looking to learn boxing skills for self defense or martial arts. The book is easy to understand and provides step-by-step instructions that are suitable for beginners. The guide covers a wide range of topics, including stance, footwork, punches, and defense techniques.
One of the main advantages of Boxing on the Cobbles is its comprehensive approach. The book covers all the basics of boxing, from the proper stance to the most effective punches. It also includes tips on how to develop your skills and improve your technique over time.
Another advantage of Boxing on the Cobbles is its suitability for beginners. The book is written in a clear and concise manner, making it easy to follow along with the instructions. The photographs and illustrations are also helpful in demonstrating the proper techniques.
However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. First, the book is relatively short, with only 172 pages. While it covers a lot of ground, it may not be as comprehensive as some other boxing guides on the market. Additionally, the book is only available in paperback format, which may not be suitable for everyone. Finally, experienced boxers may find that the book is geared more towards beginners.
Overall, if you’re looking for a beginner-friendly guide to boxing skills for self defense and martial arts, then Boxing on the Cobbles is definitely worth considering.
Why You Suck at Boxing: The Most Common Mistakes Made by Beginners in Boxing and How to Avoid Them
If you’re a beginner in boxing, you should definitely purchase this audiobook. It provides invaluable insights on common mistakes made by beginners in boxing and how to avoid them.
Pros
- The author provides comprehensive guidance to help beginners avoid the most prevalent errors made in boxing.
- The audiobook is well-researched and offers step-by-step techniques that are easy to follow.
- The author humanizes the sport of boxing and presents it as an exercise that can be enjoyed by anyone.
Cons
- The audiobook is only 3 hours and 16 minutes long, so it might not cover everything that a beginner needs to know.
- The audiobook is only available in English, which might be a disadvantage for non-English speakers.
- The audiobook is only available in an unabridged version, which might be too long for some people.
We found “Why You Suck at Boxing: The Most Common Mistakes Made by Beginners in Boxing and How to Avoid Them” to be a great resource for beginners in boxing. The author presents the sport of boxing in a relatable and accessible way, making it easy for anyone to get started. The audiobook is well-researched and offers comprehensive guidance to help beginners avoid the most prevalent errors made in boxing.
The author also provides step-by-step techniques that are easy to follow, making it easy for beginners to get started. We also appreciated how the author humanizes the sport of boxing, presenting it as an exercise that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of their skill level or experience.
However, the audiobook is only 3 hours and 16 minutes long, so it might not cover everything that a beginner needs to know. Additionally, the audiobook is only available in English, which might be a disadvantage for non-English speakers. Finally, the audiobook is only available in an unabridged version, which might be too long for some people.
In summary, if you’re a beginner in boxing, we highly recommend “Why You Suck at Boxing: The Most Common Mistakes Made by Beginners in Boxing and How to Avoid Them”. The audiobook provides invaluable insights on common mistakes made by beginners in boxing and how to avoid them.
The Subtlety of Xingyi Boxing
If you’re a fan of martial arts and want to learn more about Xingyi Boxing, you should definitely consider buying The Subtlety of Xingyi Boxing by Wenhua Liu.
Pros
- Comprehensive guide to Xingyi Boxing
- Easy to follow instructions
- Great for beginners
Cons
- Only 131 pages long
- Limited information on advanced techniques
- Not suitable for those looking for a more general boxing book
This book is a great choice for anyone who wants to learn more about Xingyi Boxing and improve their skills. The instructions are easy to follow and the book is very comprehensive, making it a great choice for beginners.
The only downside is that the book is relatively short, so it may not be suitable for those looking for more advanced techniques. Additionally, the book is focused solely on Xingyi Boxing, so it may not be the best choice for those looking for a more general boxing book.
Overall, we highly recommend The Subtlety of Xingyi Boxing for anyone interested in learning more about this unique and fascinating martial art.
The Art of the Sweet Science: Boxing Training for the Body and Mind
We highly recommend The Art of the Sweet Science: Boxing Training for the Body and Mind for anyone looking to improve their boxing skills and mindset.
Pros
- Provides a comprehensive guide to boxing training for both the body and mind
- Offers life lessons that can be applied to day-to-day life
- Easy to read and understand
Cons
- Some readers may find the content too basic
- Lack of detailed explanations and pictures for some workouts
- Relatively short read at only 198 pages
The Art of the Sweet Science: Boxing Training for the Body and Mind is a great resource for anyone looking to improve their boxing skills. The book offers a comprehensive guide to boxing training for both the body and mind, which is a unique and valuable approach.
The author provides life lessons that can be applied to day-to-day life, making this book not only informative but also inspiring. The content is easy to read and understand, making it accessible to anyone regardless of their level of boxing expertise.
One potential downside is that some readers may find the content too basic, particularly those with more advanced boxing skills. Additionally, some workouts lack detailed explanations and pictures, which may make them difficult to follow for some readers. Finally, the book is relatively short at only 198 pages, which may leave some readers wanting more.
Overall, we highly recommend The Art of the Sweet Science: Boxing Training for the Body and Mind for anyone looking to improve their boxing skills and mindset.
Old School Boxing Fitness: How to Train Like a Champ
If you’re looking to train like a champ and improve your boxing skills, Old School Boxing Fitness is a great place to start.
Pros
- Provides a wealth of information on boxing techniques and training methods
- Easy-to-read format with helpful pictures and illustrations
- Suitable for both beginners and experienced boxers
Cons
- Some readers may find the book lacking in detail
- No accompanying DVD or video content
- Not specifically tailored to any one type of boxing (e.g. kickboxing, MMA)
As someone who has tried various boxing training methods over the years, I found Old School Boxing Fitness to be a valuable resource. The book covers everything from basic punches and footwork to more advanced techniques and training drills. I especially appreciated the clear explanations and helpful illustrations, which made it easy to understand and apply the concepts.
One potential downside for some readers is that the book is not overly detailed. While it provides a solid foundation for boxing training, it may not be sufficient for those looking for more in-depth information. Additionally, the lack of accompanying video content may be a drawback for some.
Overall, I would recommend Old School Boxing Fitness to anyone looking to improve their boxing skills or get started with boxing training. It’s an accessible and informative resource that can benefit both beginners and experienced boxers alike.
Boxing’s Greatest Fighters
If you’re a boxing enthusiast looking for a comprehensive guide to the greatest fighters of all time, then Boxing’s Greatest Fighters by Bert Randolph Sugar is a must-read.
Pros
- The book covers over 100 of the greatest fighters in boxing history, complete with biographies, stats, and photos.
- The writing style is engaging and entertaining, making it an enjoyable read for both casual and hardcore boxing fans.
- The book is well-organized, making it easy to find information on specific fighters or eras.
Cons
- The rankings may not align with your personal opinions, leading to some disagreements.
- The book focuses mainly on fighters from the pre-1950s era, which may not be of interest to some readers.
- The book doesn’t cover any recent fighters or fights, so it may not be up-to-date for some readers.
We found Boxing’s Greatest Fighters to be an informative and engaging read, providing a comprehensive overview of the greatest fighters in boxing history. The book is well-organized, making it easy to find information on specific fighters or eras. The writing style is entertaining and engaging, making it an enjoyable read for both casual and hardcore boxing fans.
However, the rankings may not align with your personal opinions, leading to some disagreements. Additionally, the book focuses mainly on fighters from the pre-1950s era, which may not be of interest to some readers. Lastly, the book doesn’t cover any recent fighters or fights, so it may not be up-to-date for some readers.
Overall, if you’re a boxing fan looking for a comprehensive guide to the greatest fighters of all time, then Boxing’s Greatest Fighters by Bert Randolph Sugar is definitely worth checking out.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best boxing books, there are a few things to consider to ensure that you get the most value for your money. Here are some features to look out for:
Content
The content of the book is the most important factor to consider. It should cover all aspects of boxing, including history, techniques, training, and famous boxers. A good boxing book should also provide in-depth analysis and insights into the sport.
Author
The author’s experience and expertise in the field of boxing is another important factor to consider. Look for books written by experienced boxers, trainers, or sports journalists who have a deep understanding of the sport.
Format
The format of the book is also important. Some books are more instructional, while others are more narrative. Decide which type of book you prefer and choose accordingly.
Reviews
Reading reviews from other readers can give you a good idea of the book’s quality. Look for books with positive reviews and high ratings.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the book. While a higher price does not necessarily mean a better book, it is important to find a book that is within your budget.
In summary, when looking for the best boxing books, consider the content, author, format, reviews, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can find a book that will provide you with valuable insights into the sport of boxing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best books for learning boxing techniques?
Some of the best books for learning boxing techniques include “The Tao of Gung Fu” by Bruce Lee, “Championship Fighting” by Jack Dempsey, and “The Art of Boxing” by Bobby Hill. These books cover everything from basic techniques to advanced strategies, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced boxers.
What are the top boxing history books?
Some of the top boxing history books include “Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson” by Geoffrey Ward, “King of the World: Muhammad Ali and the Rise of an American Hero” by David Remnick, and “The Fight” by Norman Mailer. These books provide an in-depth look at the lives and careers of some of the most legendary boxers in history.
Are there any recommended boxing autobiographies?
Yes, some of the recommended boxing autobiographies include “Undisputed Truth” by Mike Tyson, “Raging Bull: My Story” by Jake LaMotta, and “Boxing Like the Champs: Lessons from Boxing’s Greatest Fighters” by Mark Hatmaker. These books offer a firsthand account of the trials and tribulations of being a professional boxer.
What are some of the best boxing fiction books?
Some of the best boxing fiction books include “The Sweet Science” by A.J. Liebling, “The Professional” by W.C. Heinz, and “The Power of One” by Bryce Courtenay. These books provide a unique perspective on the sport of boxing, exploring the emotional and psychological aspects of the sport.
Where can I find free boxing books?
You can find free boxing books at your local library or online at websites such as Project Gutenberg and Open Library. These websites offer a wide selection of classic and contemporary boxing books that you can read for free.
How did boxing become known as the sweet science?
Boxing became known as the sweet science due to the technical and strategic aspects of the sport. Boxers must use a combination of speed, power, and precision to outmaneuver their opponents, making it a highly skilled and strategic sport. The term “sweet science” was coined by sports writer Pierce Egan in the early 19th century, and has since become synonymous with the sport of boxing.