Combinations
Decoy one-two, then left jab
FlowDecoy → Left jab → Right cross → Left jab
The decoy one-two to left jab is a combination where you first show a one-two you have no intention of landing, then send the power left jab through when the opponent reacts. The one-two is just for show. It moves the opponent's guard and stops their feet. Because the third punch goes into the opening, you need to watch the opponent's reaction closely as you punch.
| Type | Combinations |
|---|---|
| Notation | 1-2-1 |
| Number of punches | 3 |
| Footwork and defense | Decoy |
| Goals | Techniques Off the Jab, Feint Techniques, Setup-and-Power Techniques, One-Two Techniques |
| Guard | Written for orthodox (left foot forward) |
Decoy one-two, then left jab: step by step
- From your stance, throw a left jab toward the opponent's guard without meaning to land it.
- Follow with a right cross, also shown without landing, to make the shape of a one-two.
- Read the reaction: does the opponent tighten their guard or stop their feet?
- Land the power left jab where the guard has moved and opened up.
Decoy one-two, then left jab: key points
- The first one-two isn't meant to land. It's for show, to move the opponent's guard and stop their feet.
- Throw the power jab after you read the reaction. Don't decide in advance. Aim at the opening.
- The basic finish is the left jab. If the guard comes up, you can also finish to the body.
Decoy one-two, then left jab: common mistakes
- Throwing the decoy one-two too hard. You lose your balance and the power jab comes late.
- Throwing all three punches in one flow without watching the opponent. You can't hit the opening in the guard, and it becomes just three punches in a row.
- Making the decoy too small. The opponent doesn't react, and neither their guard nor their feet move.
Decoy one-two, then left jab: how to practice
- In shadowboxing, show the one-two as if stopping it halfway, pause for a beat, then extend the left jab. Check that the decoy and the power punch clearly use different amounts of force.
- On the heavy bag, stop the one-two just short of the bag and land only the last left jab solidly. Mix in rounds where you finish at body height.
Related techniques
By goalTechniques Off the JabFeint TechniquesSetup-and-Power TechniquesOne-Two 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.