Delante Johnson

Delante Johnson born August 13, 1998 is an American professional boxer from Cleveland, Ohio, who stands 6 feet tall with a reach of 71 inches. Johnson, also known as “Tiger,” made his mark in amateur boxing with a gold medal at the 2016 Youth World Championships and a bronze at the 2019 Pan American Games. He represented the United States at the 2020 Summer Olympics but was defeated by Roniel Iglesias in the quarterfinals. Johnson’s last amateur match was in 2022, where he challenged Richard Willows for the WBL Welterweight title but lost by unanimous decision.

Turning professional, Johnson made his debut on November 20, 2021, on the Terence Crawford vs. Shawn Porter undercard, securing a fourth-round technical knockout victory over Antonius Grable. His next fight, on January 29, 2022, saw him face unbeaten Xavier Madrid. Johnson won the fight by unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring it 40–36 in his favor.

Delante Johnson’s boxing style is rooted in the traditional American approach, known for its sharp jab and defensive mastery. Johnson uses his jab not just to establish distance, but as an offensive weapon that sets up his next move. He integrates the Philly Shell defense, a hallmark of many American boxers, which involves positioning one arm to guard the body while the other arm is held higher to deflect incoming punches. This stance allows him to roll with shots, slipping under punches while remaining in perfect position to counter. His ability to maintain defensive balance while attacking with precision sets him apart from the typical volume-based approach of many fighters.

Unlike many American fighters who rely heavily on constant pressure, Johnson’s approach is more measured. He’s always ready for a counterattack, adapting seamlessly between offense and defense. Whether it’s counter-striking, defensive movement, or creating offensive opportunities after slipping a punch, Johnson operates with fluidity, never rushing into exchanges. His patience and positioning allow him to control the pace of the fight. He moves with purpose, creating angles and exploiting openings rather than forcing a brawl.

The Philly Shell gives Johnson the ability to lean back, using his defensive positioning to transition into offensive strikes. By rolling with punches or pulling away from an opponent’s attack, he creates space to deliver his own power shots, often catching opponents off guard. This defensive tool enhances his ability to defend while maintaining the threat of a powerful counter, making him a constant threat in any exchange. Johnson’s mastery of the Philly Shell is an essential part of his boxing arsenal, allowing him to absorb punishment without taking unnecessary damage while preparing for his next offensive opportunity. Johnson’s footwork plays a pivotal role in this approach. His lateral movement is quick, calculated, and essential for evading attacks while staying in range to strike.