Become Fighter
Pull counter: Boxing guide
Lean out of range just far enough, then step back in with a punch.
The pull counter makes the opponent miss by inches. You shift your weight onto the rear leg and let the head and trunk move back so the punch falls short. Their arm is fully extended and they are off balance. That is your moment.
It works best against a fighter who throws with the whole body and leaves their guard open when they reach. It is risky if you pull too far or too slowly, so it is practised with control before being used in sparring.
Key points
- Shift weight onto the rear leg. Keep both feet planted. Do not hop back.
- Move the head back about a hand's width, with the chin tucked and the guard up.
- Counter as the punch falls short. Your front leg is already loaded to push forward.
- Return with a straight punch, not a hook. Straight is quickest.
- Do not use it repeatedly. Once they read it, they will follow you in.
Common mistakes and how to fix them
- Pulling the head back with the weight still forward. The weight goes back with the head. Practise slow, in front of a mirror.
- Dropping the hands to balance. Hands up is what makes it safe. If you miss the timing, your guard still covers you.
- Pulling too far and not returning. A hand's width is enough. Further and you have no counter.
Combinations that use it
Related techniques
The rest is in the app
The step-by-step breakdown, the timed drill with the coach calling the shots and the quiz are part of Become Fighter Pro, where this lesson sits in the Counter punching module of Boxing fundamentals.
Get it on Google Play. Coming soon to the App Store.
More from Counter punching
- Slip and counter: Boxing guide
- Catch and return: Boxing guide
- Reading the jab: Boxing guide
- Check hook against the rush: Boxing guide
Combat sports training is hard on the body. Warm up, stay within your limits and check with a doctor first if you have a health condition. Practise in a clear space and stop if you feel pain or dizziness. Learn partner work only under a qualified coach.