How to use the philly shell?

Question

I know it is used for counterattacking, but can it be more specific? And what's a shoulder roll? And what's the best set?

Answer 1

The philly shell is a defensive technique.  The "shoulder roll" is another name for it.  As far as how you do it- it is not for beginners and it should only be done when you have mastered it because it is arguably the most risky defensive technique out there.  It can be very effective if you know how to do it.  If you are right handed, you bring your left arm down so that it comes across your stomach and your left shoulder is high up protecting your chin.  Your right arm is in the conventional position ready to block any punches that come to you on the right side.  You must also master "rolling" with the punches- meaning that when you see a punch coming at you from the left, you turn your body to the right so that it takes away the force of the blow and/or you shoulder or arm blocks the punch.  If it is coming at you from the right, then you turn your body to the left so that it takes away the force of the blow and/or your arm or hand blocks the punch.  If you cannot effectively roll, then you are leaving the top of your head open to punches, which is why the fighters who use it are very good defensively and know how to use it.  To block body punches from the left, you block them with your arm that is across your body. To block body punches from the right, you you use your elbow and arm which is on that side of your body.  If you are left handed, then obviously, it is the opposite of everything I just said.  If you want some good examples of the philly shell, watch Floyd Mayweather, Jr. or a prime James Toney or even Sugar Ray Robinson- those guys mastered it to near-perfection.