Become Fighter
Level change off punches: MMA guide
Hide the shot behind a punch so the opponent defends the hands and loses the hips.
Elite takedown artists rarely shoot from a clean stance. They throw a jab, a cross or a feint and level change as the opponent reacts. The punch gets the hands up; the shot goes beneath them.
Chains matter. A jab to the head, then a level change to the hips, then a double leg. The order is the set-up. The takedown can be the first or last move.
Key points
- Throw the punch to be seen, not to hurt. The aim is a reaction.
- Level change as the punch lands or as the opponent covers up.
- Step the lead foot deep between their feet. Your head is beside their hip.
- Mix the real shot with the feint. If you always shoot, they sprawl. If you never shoot, they ignore it.
- After a stuffed shot, return to striking or the clinch. Do not stay under the sprawl.
Common mistakes and how to fix them
- Dropping the level before the punch lands. Wait for the opponent's reaction. The punch has to draw their hands up first.
- Shooting with your head in front of the chest. Aim your head at the hip, not the sternum.
- Doing the same chain every time. Vary the combination and the timing.
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 Striking and takedown entries module of MMA foundations.
Get it on Google Play. Coming soon to the App Store.
More from Striking and takedown entries
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.