1-2-Slip-Roll-3-2-Front Upper-Hop Step Angle to the Front-Back Upper-3
This combination, 1-2-slip-roll-3-2-front upper-hop step angle to the front-back upper-3, is a sophisticated sequence that integrates foundational offensive strikes with sequential defensive movements, level changes, and crucial angle adjustments to maximize counter-offense opportunities.
Phase 1: Offensive Entry (1-2)
The combination begins with the most fundamental sequence in boxing, designed to establish range, rhythm, and force the opponent to engage defensively.
- 1 (Jab): The sequence starts with the jab, a quick, straight punch thrown with the lead hand.
- Purpose: It is not a power punch, but serves to measure distance, disrupt the opponent’s rhythm, and create an opening, often by forcing them to raise their guard.
- Mechanics: Rotate your front hip into your back leg while extending the front hand down the middle, lifting the front heel as weight shifts back.
- 2 (Straight Back Hand): This is the power punch of the combination, thrown immediately after the jab.
- Power: Force is generated from the rotation of the hips and torso.
- Execution: Aim for about 90–95% extension, ensuring a slight bend remains in the elbow.
Phase 2: Defensive Evasion and Coil (Slip-Roll)
After the initial offensive burst, this phase anticipates and evades the opponent’s likely counter-punch (often a straight hand), neutralizing their attack while setting up the return fire.
- Slip: This is the initial evasive maneuver, performed by shifting your head off the centerline to anticipate and evade a quick counter-punch. This move also sets up the next attack.
- Roll: This is a continuous defensive head movement that moves the head further off the centerline, typically evading an anticipated straight counter.
- Setup: The roll is executed by bending your knees and lowering your level (moving the upper body in a U-shaped motion).
- Crucial Outcome: This movement is critical because it loads your hips and core, coiling your body like a spring for the next attack.
Phase 3: Counter-Offense (3-2-Front Upper)
This segment capitalizes on the momentum generated by the defensive movements and the opponent's exposed position.
- 3 (Front Hook): Fired immediately after the roll, attacking from an angle the opponent isn't expecting.
- Mechanics: Focus on extending fully by aligning the elbow with the wrist and letting the shoulder blade rotate.
- 2 (Straight Back Hand): A rapid continuation of the sequence, maintaining pressure on the opponent. This power punch leverages momentum from preceding movements to generate rotational force, catching the opponent as they adjust to defend the hook.
- Front Upper (Front Uppercut): Thrown with the lead hand.
- Purpose: This punch is designed to come "up the middle" and break through a tight guard. As it lands, it forces the opponent to raise their guard even higher, which can be disorienting and create openings elsewhere.
Phase 4: Angle Change and Finish (Hop Step Angle to the Front-Back Upper-3)
This crucial phase involves footwork to reposition the boxer and launch a finishing sequence from an advantageous angle.
- Hop Step Angle to the Front: This refers to taking an angled step to the front side (e.g., stepping left for an orthodox fighter).
- Purpose: This move gets your head and body off the centerline, causing the opponent's potential counter-punch to miss. It also positions you on the opponent’s exposed side, gaining a superior angle.
- Back Upper (Back Uppercut): Delivered with the dominant (rear) hand immediately after gaining the angle.
- Targeting: This shot exploits the opening created when the opponent raises their gloves to defend the preceding punches.
- Mechanics: To generate power, you quickly bend your knees, drop your hips, and fire your hand upward. This move catches opponents off guard because they do not expect a powerful punch with the same hand (the rear hand) following the straight (2) so quickly.
- 3 (Front Hook): The combination finishes with a front hook from the lead hand.
- Purpose: This punch attacks from a different angle, further confusing the opponent and catching them as they are still recovering or trying to defend the unexpected uppercut.