1-2-Step Slip-Back Upper (Up the Middle)-3

 


This combination, 1-2-Step Slip-Back Upper (Up the Middle)-3, is a sophisticated sequence that uses the foundational offensive entry (1-2) to bait a counter, employs movement to evade the return shot, and then launches a powerful, unexpected counter-attack up the center line, finishing with a hook from an angle.

Breakdown of 1-2-Step Slip-Back Upper (Up the Middle)-3

Phase 1: Offensive Entry (1-2)

The combination begins with the most fundamental sequence in boxing, designed to establish range and force the opponent to engage defensively.

  • 1 (Jab):

    • Purpose: This lead-hand punch is the setup. Its primary functions are to measure distance, disrupt the opponent's rhythm, and create an opening, often by forcing the opponent to raise their guard.

    • Mechanics: Rotate your front hip into your back leg while extending your front hand straight down the middle.

  • 2 (Straight Back Hand):

    • Purpose: This is the power punch of the combination, thrown immediately after the jab. The goal is to land with full force while leveraging the momentum of the body.

    • Mechanics: Power is generated from the rotation of your hips and torso. You should aim for about 90–95% extension, maintaining a slight bend in the elbow.

Phase 2: Evasion and Angle Change (step slip)

After the 1-2, you must anticipate and evade the opponent's likely counter-punch (often a straight back hand). The "step slip" serves both as evasion and to gain an advantageous angle.

  • Step Slip:

    • Purpose: The movement shifts your head off the centerline to anticipate and evade the opponent’s counter-punch. The added "step" component, helps you gain a superior angle or create distance while keeping your head offline.

    • Outcome: This evasion neutralizes the counter and repositions your body to load your hips and core for the powerful return shot.

Phase 3: Counter-Offense (Back Upper up the middle)

As you complete the "step slip" and avoid the counter, you immediately launch a high-power counter-attack with the back hand.

  • Back Upper (Uppercut with the Rear Hand):

    • Purpose: This powerful shot exploits the opening created when the opponent raises their gloves to defend the preceding straight. It is designed to come "up the middle" and break through a tight guard. This move catches opponents off guard because they often do not expect a power punch with the same hand (the rear hand) immediately following the previous straight (2).

    • Mechanics: To generate power, you quickly bend your knees, drop your hips, and fire your hand upward. This involves re-engaging your core and legs for powerful execution.

Phase 4: Continuation and Finish (3)

The combination concludes by changing the attack angle to capitalize on the opponent's reaction to the vertical uppercut.

  • 3 (Front Hook):

    • Purpose: You immediately follow the uppercut with a front hook. This attacks from a different angle, further confusing the opponent and maintaining pressure. It is thrown to catch the opponent as they are still recovering or trying to defend the unexpected uppercut.

    • Mechanics: This lead-hand hook requires you to focus on extending fully by aligning the elbow with the wrist and letting the shoulder blade rotate.