Science of Fights

The Superman Punch is arguably the most popular single move in fighting sports today. The technique is flashy but highly effective when executed well. Hitting someone with a form-perfect Superman in a fight or sparring match instantly boosts one’s confidence. It is one of those techniques that positively shifts or increases a fighters’ momentum---no wonder, it’s so popular.

A knockout punch can end all contests decisively. It can finish fights without dispute and can save your life in grave circumstances. A fighting sports athlete needs it when he is awfully down on points; an up and comer wants to have a lot of wins through knockouts to boost confidence and create an intimidating image. Some people just want that knockout punch to end things in their favor and end things fast. True, the knockout punch is a tool that every fighter should have in their repertoire. It can be used as intimidation and insurance. But before we get into the details on what makes a knockout punch, we must first understand the anatomy of the knockout.

The Roundhouse Kick. No, it is not as fancy as it may sound but it’s one hell of an offensive weapon in fighting. There are lots of Chuck Norris Roundhouse Kick jokes going around especially on the web and many would get a kick out it (pun intended). Yet, I am pretty sure many think of the roundhouse kick as a fancy type of spinning kick. Surprisingly, even people who have been following martial arts and MMA matches would still confuse a roundhouse kick with something else. Let’s get everything straight, talk all about the roundhouse kick and how it’s done.

Everybody likes the heavy bag. You can hit it with all your might and as much as you want and with every hit, it gives you a feeling satisfaction. Since it is made to absorb enormous amount of impact, it will develop your power. There are speed bags, double-end bags, banana bags, kick pads, power shields… They all have a place in fight training. These equipments, when used properly, improve accuracy, speed, and power. Each gear trains a specific area in your game. Example, double-end bags will develop accuracy and timing; power shields will enhance kicking power; speed bags will build shoulder endurance. Each one provides a different objective but they all have one thing in common…. You have a tangible target. You have something to hit.

Jab Slip and Left Uppercut 1) As the opponent throws his jab, sidestep forward while angling to your left 2) Outside slip his punch and throw the uppercut to his jaw 3) It is best to follow up with a straight right Very good against fighters that has a high guard and can't be hit by straight forward punches. This counter heavily relies on reflexes and intuition. If you're quick and your opponent throws a lazy or overcommitted jab, it will be much easier to pull off. In the video, Marquez already knew that when he rushes in, Jandaeng throws a defensive jab at him. So JMM executed this counter to neutralize the Thai's jab. Keep in mind that Juan Manuel, is already a move ahead in this exchange because of his ring intelligence and keen intuition. Let me emphasize that Marquez executed this counter move perfectly. How to improve this technique: Flow Drills Focus Mitts Constant Sparring note: This is against a southpaw can be done against the ri...

These are the generic styles in MMA. Since it is called “Mixed” Martial Arts, fighters combine these different elements to achieve a better game. But it is apparent that fighters are more inclined to certain style that somehow defines their fighting approach. Fighting Styles in MMA: Brawler/Fist Bomber – willing to trade punches; likes to throw haymakers; lik es to set up overhands, hooks, and power uppercuts; has the Knockout Mentality; can absorb a great amount of punishment and also a good sprawler Boxer/Sprawler – very good technical boxing skills, hits hard but avoids trading, good footwork and head/torso movement, good defensive sprawl against takedowns Traditional MuayThai – Likes to chase and pressure; always square to the opponent and throws powerful Leg Kicks and Knees in the clinch; tough as nails Finesse Kickboxer - Uses kickboxing tools to control distance; picks shots but does not give full commitment to his attacks; has good footwork; avoids trading blows; ...

Boxing coaches will often overemphasize the importance of the jab to their fighters. “You cannot fight if you can’t throw the jab right.” Old school trainers live by that code. The Jab is the fastest offensive tool. It travels a short distance and it is highly intuitive; therefore, very effective if used correctly. In boxing, successful fighters respect and know the value of the jab. They utilize it in ways that will add to their advantage. Most of the time, the effectiveness of the jab is the deciding factor of the match; the difference between winning and losing. Sometimes, jabs do not need to be powerful, do not even have to land…. But it all depends on its purpose.