I am interested to read the answers that the experienced coaches will offer.

It's hard to argue with Freddy Roach - he has more world champion than any other living coach (and only HIS coach Eddie Futch has had more).

I tend to think the natural (wider) stance is better for my own reasons as well. It's natural and doesn't offer as many possibilities for screwing up your balance.

As you say it IS closely related to your fighting style.

Generally I think it a poor idea to "pick a style" before you know all the basics, so this would argue against picking a stance as well.

BUT YOU MUST stand up while learning everything else in boxing so picking a stance is also a necessity.

My opinion (or guess) is that using the natural width stance is best in the beginning and then later experimenting with a narrow stance if that fits your direction of development makes some sense.

BUT I AM certainly no expert on this subject so let's hear what the smart guys say...
--
Herb