Understanding Dutch-Style
Andy Souwer vs Masato
Andy Souwer is one of the greatest kickboxers of all time and is the 2-time K-1 Max World Champion. Training out of Mejiro Gym in the Netherlands, Souwer is the prototypical, and perhaps pinnacle, of Dutch-style kickboxing.
Masato is a Japanese kickboxer who captured the K-1 Max Championship in 2003 and 2008. Despite an earlier loss against Dutch-style kickboxer Albert Kraus, Masato was able to defeat Kraus to win his first K-1 title and defeated him again in 2004.
At the beginning of the fight Souwer advances in a relatively squared stance with a high guard to protect himself from punches. As Masato strikes most of his punches land but glance off Souwer’s guard and Souwer either bounces backwards or holds his ground and attacks the lead leg that Masato has planted to deliver his flurries. Each combination comes with the cost of eating a low kick. In spite of incoming strikes Souwer is still the aggressor. He moves forward, hands held defensively, inviting Masato to take the initiative but then exploit openings at the end of hand combinations.
In the second round, Souwer increases his pressure. He has Masato’s rhythm and begins his attack of left hooks and low kicks. Constant pressure forces Masato to punch to create distance but Souwer wants Masto to set his feet. As the round ticks down Souwer builds and is relentless with his attacks. With one round left and technically out striking Souwer, Masato is broken and unable to continue the next 3 minutes.
Analysis
If K-1 exists as a rule-set, what martial arts can you see in Souwer’s style?
What are the dangers of the Dutch-style guard and counter?
At 1:05 minute mark in the 2nd round Souwer uses a very clean slip to avoid a straight. Why does Souwer prefer his double forearm guard which requires him to take punches over slips, bobs, parries?
Despite his status as a great Kickboxer Souwer (160-21-1) has a record of 2-3 in MMA with only one of his wins being from strikes. Why might this style be hard to adapt to MMA?
Why is this style so prevalent in kickboxing?
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