Viddal Riley Breaks Down Ben Askren’s Sparring Session – ‘Most of His Boxing Technique Is Illegal’

Professional boxer and YouTuber, Viddal Riley, has made an interesting analysis on Ben Askren’s boxing training. The highly-rated cruiserweight gave his take on Askren’s boxing technique and claimed it is illegal.

Askren’s striking has been a subject of a lot of criticism ever since he announced he would be taking on Jake Paul in a boxing fight. Going by his lack of striking in his MMA career, many were skeptical about ‘Funky’s ability to box. And Riley has now commented on it.

The undefeated boxer posted a video on his YouTube channel in which he broke down Ben Askren’s sparring session. At one point in the video, Riley paused and said, “He’s pulling at the back of the head. I remember saying it in previous videos, Ben Askren, most of his boxing technique is illegal for the sport of boxing. It’s illegal for the sport of boxing.”

The Englishman then explained his comments. He said, “You cannot pull the back of the head and then throw punches. You may get away with it on the other occasion, but it is against the rules and it’s something you cannot do.”

READ: OPINION: Floyd Mayweather vs Logan Paul and Ben Askren vs Jake Paul Is Not Helping Boxing

Viddal Riley knows what he’s talking about

The young cruiserweight may have only four professional fights under his belt; however, he still knows his sport. Therefore, his comments on Askren are not a criticism of him, but rather of his technique.

Riley coached YouTuber turned professional boxer KSI. Moreover, he enjoyed success in his brief career as a boxing trainer as his fighter beat Logan Paul. Therefore, Riley can spot bad techniques when he sees them.

With his comments, Riley showed that Askren will have to change his approach with his striking. If not, he will most definitely face a point deduction or even risk disqualification. 

During the KSI vs. Logan Paul II fight, two points were deducted from Paul for an illegal punch, and ‘Maverick’ lost the fight due to this. Hence, it remains to be seen if ‘Funky’ will change his technique before stepping through the ropes next month. 

What do you make of this comment from Viddal Riley? Do you think Ben Askren’s boxing technique is illegal?

READ: Jake Paul vs Ben Askren: Height, Weight, Record and Every Stat You Need to Know