Combinations

Bait jab, slip, right cross

1Left jabSlip2Right cross

Flow(light) Left jab → Slip → Right cross

Bait jab, slip, right cross is a counter where you throw a left jab not to land it but to get the opponent to jab back, then slip their jab and drive in a right cross. Instead of waiting for their punch, you make them throw, and you counter where you already know it's coming. Use it when you're both working at range.

At a glance
Type	Combinations
Notation	`1-2`
Number of punches	2
Footwork and defense	Slip
Goals	Techniques Off the Jab, Defense-to-Offense Techniques, Counterpunching Techniques, Setup-and-Power Techniques
Guard	Written for orthodox (left foot forward)

Bait jab, slip, right cross: step by step

Throw a light left jab. Its job is to get the opponent to jab back.
As you bring your left fist back, expect the opponent to jab back.
As their jab comes, move your head slightly forward and to the right to make it miss.
Right after their jab cuts through the air, drive in a right cross.
Bring your right fist back and return to your guard.

Bait jab, slip, right cross: key points

The first left jab doesn't need to land. The aim is to get the opponent to punch back.
Don't wait to see their jab before you move. Read that they'll jab back and get ready to slip in advance.
Moving your head forward and to the right on the slip makes their jab miss and puts you at a range and angle where your right cross reaches.
Leave no gap between making it miss and punching. Send the right through before their missed arm comes back.

Bait jab, slip, right cross: common mistakes

Throwing the bait jab hard. Your body drifts forward and you're not ready in time to slip the jab that comes back.
Trying to make their jab miss only after you see it. You react late and take it.
Slipping too wide. Your head ends up too far away for the right cross to reach.

Bait jab, slip, right cross: how to practice

In shadowboxing, after a light left jab, picture the opponent's jab coming back, slip slightly forward and to the right, and throw a right cross. Repeat the flow.
On the heavy bag, land a light left jab, then treat the bag swinging back as their jab, slip it and drive in a right cross.

Moves in this technique

Slip
Slip

Related techniques

By goalTechniques Off the Jab Defense-to-Offense Techniques Counterpunching Techniques Setup-and-Power Techniques

Left and right are written for orthodox (left foot forward). If you're southpaw, swap left and right as you read. How to read the notation
This is Japanese-style boxing: techniques as taught at a boxing gym in Japan. American or Mexican coaches may teach some of them differently.

Edited by: hitoyoyo · Published: October 12, 2026