Combinations
Block and fire back
Block1Left jab2Right cross
FlowBlock → Left jab → Right cross
Block and fire back is a combination where you block the opponent's punch and then, without a pause, return a left jab or a one-two from that same spot. If you only block, you spend longer on defense and the opponent keeps punching. The moment right after the block overlaps with the end of their punch, so it's an easy moment to get a counter in.
| Type | Combinations |
|---|---|
| Notation | 1-2 |
| Number of punches | 2 |
| Footwork and defense | Block |
| Goals | Defense-to-Offense Techniques, Counterpunching Techniques |
| Guard | Written for orthodox (left foot forward) |
Block and fire back: step by step
- Stay in your guard and put the hard surface of your forearm in the path of the opponent's punch. Set the angle of your elbow and leave a small gap between your arm and your body.
- Brace your arm at the moment of impact so the punch doesn't push it in. Keep your feet where they are.
- Right after the block, return a left jab from that position.
- Follow with a right cross to make it a one-two. Depending on the situation, you can stop at the single jab.
- When you finish punching, move to the side or return to your stance, and tighten your guard again.
Block and fire back: key points
- Block with the hard part of your forearm. Don't press your arm against your body. Leave a little gap and brace it.
- Fire back from where you blocked, without backing up. If you back up first, the opponent has already recovered from their punch.
- After you fire back, link everything into one motion: punch and move, or punch and return, then back to guard.
Block and fire back: common mistakes
- Blocking with your elbow flared out. Your whole arm gets pushed in and you can't set up to fire back.
- Freezing for a moment after the block. Your counter comes late and the opponent beats you to the next punch.
- Staying in front of the opponent after your counter. You take their return punch with no defense.
Block and fire back: how to practice
- In shadowboxing, picture the opponent's punch, form the block on your forearm, and immediately return a left jab or one-two from that spot. Check that there's no gap between blocking and punching.
- On the heavy bag, block the bag on your forearm as it swings back to you, and throw a jab or one-two right after you stop it. Keep going until you move to the side or return to your stance.
Moves in this technique
Related techniques
By goalDefense-to-Offense TechniquesCounterpunching 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.