Glossary

Angle

Technique

A position off the center line of the opponent, created through footwork. Fighting at angles makes you harder to hit and opens up new lines of attack.

Related Technique
Angle Out (Exit Angle)

Stepping off to an angle after throwing a combination, exiting the pocket to avoid the opponent's counter. A fundamental safety skill that separates amateurs from professionals and beginners from experienced fighters. Vasyl Lomachenko and Andre Ward have elevated the exit angle into an art form, using it not just as an escape but as a repositioning tool that creates blind-side attack angles for the next combination.

More Technique Terms

Backpedal

Moving straight backward. Generally considered bad footwork because it surrenders ring position and can lead to being trapped against the ropes.

Bob and Weave

A defensive head movement technique where the fighter ducks under punches in a U-shaped motion, shifting weight laterally to avoid hooks.

Body Shot

Any punch targeted at the torso, including the ribs, liver, and solar plexus. Body shots accumulate damage and slow down opponents over rounds.

Catch

Using the open glove to absorb an incoming punch, neutralizing its impact while maintaining guard position.

Check Hook

A lead hook thrown while simultaneously pivoting away from an advancing opponent. Uses the opponent's forward momentum against them.

Clinch

Grabbing and holding the opponent to prevent them from punching, to rest, or to rough them up on the inside. The referee will command "break" to separate.

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