SOMETHING as simple as Vaseline can be the difference between winning and losing inside the boxing ring.

Eagle-eyed fans will have noticed that it is used by their favourite stars during trips back to the corner in between rounds.

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Why do boxers use Vaseline before a fight?

Before a fight starts, a boxer will usually have Vaseline dabbed onto their face to protect themselves.

It will not decrease the pain, but it can stop punches from connecting properly because it causes the skin to be very ‘slippery’.

The cutman in the corner will usually apply it to the nose, lips, cheekbones, jawbone and beneath the eyebrows.

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Why do boxers use Vaseline during a fight?

Most boxers will find themselves battered and bleeding after a few rounds in the ring.

Vaseline mixed with coagulant can be applied to the open wounds to limit the amount of blood that is lost.

The coagulant slows the bleeding and the Vaseline protects the damaged area.

If a boxer’s nose is bleeding, the cutman will usually put a dab of Vaseline up it to limit the bleeding.