What do you define as a Boxing Skill?

[ThePrince]

I always see or hear people talking about 'who's more skilled? Fighter A or Fighter B?'

But people have different definitions of skills from what I gather. Some consider speed and power as skills, but others just view them as physical gifts and not as true skills. So is it something that is innate or is it something that is learned/acquired?

What do you define as boxing skills?

[Slyboots]

A lot of things define skill. Footwork, defense, counter punching, accuracy.

[ThePrince]

A lot of things define skill. Footwork, defense, counter punching, accuracy.

So I take it you mean it's things that are learned and not what one is born with.

In order to be an effective counter-puncher, to have great defense or footwork, doesn't that require speed? So those learned skills without innate speed aren't as effective, wouldn't you agree?

So where do you draw the line on what should be considered a skill?

[gatagata]

In my opinion skills are what you learn.

[GrandpaBernard]

Their form with their offense, how perfectly does fighter A throw each punch and combos? How do they set up their punches? Do they still have their balance after launching an offense?

Defense (Parrying, checking, rolling with the punches, clinching, making opponents miss, etc)
Timing
Accuracy
Footwork

Ring IQ, which also includes knowing how to use your physical gifts. Thomas Hearns is a very good example for someone who used his build to his full advantage. Paul Williams is the opposite.

Versatility, can they be effective from anywhere in the boxing ring?

Perspective, how does Fighter A's skills hold up against elite opponents?

Juan Manuel Marquez is someone who I would call skilled.