So, you want to throw hands like a pro boxing champ? Good. But here’s the truth: Throwing single punches in boxing is like bringing a spoon to a knife fight. Sure, a jab might annoy your opponent, but combinations are what turn you from a “meh” boxer into a knockout artist.
In this guide, you’ll learn 15 basic boxing combinations used by legends like Mayweather and Pacquiao. We’ll break down each combo, share pro tips to avoid rookie mistakes, and even sneak in some humor (because getting punched in the face is serious enough). Let’s make your fists faster, smarter, and harder to block.
Why Boxing Combos Matter (Spoiler: They Win Fights)
Throwing punches in bunches isn’t just for show—it’s science. Single punches are easy to dodge or counter, but combinations:
- Overwhelm defenses: Force your opponent to block, duck, or panic.
- Create openings: Land body shots when they guard their head, or vice versa.
- Boost accuracy: More punches = higher odds of connecting.
Plus, judges love volume. Even if you don’t KO someone, combos rack up points. Now, let’s get to the good stuff.
The 15 Boxing Combos You Need to Master
1. Jab + Cross (1-2 Combo)
The bread and butter of boxing. Simple, fast, and deadly.
- How to throw it: Snap a jab to gauge distance, then pivot your rear foot to launch a cross.
- Pro tip: Mix speeds! Throw a lazy jab at 50% speed, then BAM—fire the cross at 100%. Your opponent won’t see it coming.
- When to use: Anytime. Seriously. Even Floyd Mayweather spams this in fights.
Common mistake: Leaning forward on the cross. Keep your chin tucked and your hips rotated.
2. Jab + Jab + Cross (1-1-2 Combo)
Double the jabs, double the trouble. This combo keeps opponents guessing: “Is he done? NOPE.”
- Why it works: The second jab disrupts their rhythm, setting up a power cross.
- Drill: Practice throwing jabs with bad intentions—pretend each is a mini-cross.
Fun fact: This combo is a secret weapon for breaking through high guards. Aim the second jab slightly lower to sneak under their elbows.
3. Jab + Cross + Left Hook (1-2-3 Combo)
The classic trio. Perfect for closing distance or backing opponents into the ropes.
- Key detail: Don’t telegraph the hook! Keep your elbow bent and swing from the hip.
- For beginners: Start slow. Throw the first two punches at full speed, then ease into the hook.
Pro analogy: Think of this combo like a movie trilogy. The jab is the setup, the cross is the plot twist, and the hook? That’s the cliffhanger knockout.
4. Lead Uppercut + Cross (5-2 Combo)
A body-to-head special. The lead uppercut (left hand for orthodox stances) lifts their guard, leaving their chin wide open for the cross.
- When to use: After landing a few jabs to the body.
- Training tip: Practice uppercuts in front of a mirror. If your shoulders hike up, you’re doing it wrong.
Warning: Uppercuts leave you open. Throw this only when you’re in close and know they’re defensive.
5. Lead Uppercut + Cross + Left Hook (4-2-3 Combo)
Add a hook to combo #4, and you have a crowd-pleaser. The cross forces their hands forward, and the hook smashes through the gap. You can also target your opponent’s body by throwing the hook to the liver.
- Footwork: Step slightly to the right after the uppercut to angle away from counters.
- Bonus: Target the liver with the hook for a “please-stop” effect.
Science bit: The liver has no rib protection. A well-placed hook there can drop anyone.
6. Jab + Right Hook (1-4 Combo)
Surprise! Most fighters expect a cross after a jab. The right hook (rear hand) catches them off-guard.
- Rotation is key: Pivot your back foot and twist your torso to generate power.
- Use case: Great against opponents who slip to your right.
Rookie alert: Don’t wind up the hook. Keep it tight.
7. Cross + Left Hook (2-3 Combo)
Power meets power. This combo is like a one-two earthquake—shake their defense, then drop the hammer.
- Timing trick: Slow down the cross slightly to bait them into blocking, then accelerate the hook.
- Defense: Duck immediately after throwing the hook. Your opponent will likely counter with a right hand.
Quote to live by: “Everyone has a plan until they get a hook to the jaw.” – Not Mike Tyson, but he’d agree.
8. Cross + Left Hook + Cross (2-3-2 Combo)
The “reset” combo. After the hook, another cross keeps the pressure high.
- Why it works: Opponents expect you to retreat after a hook. Surprise them by staying in the pocket.
- Advanced tip: Feint the second cross and go for a body shot instead.
Gear recommendation: Use hand wraps to protect your knuckles—this combo is a wrist-killer if your form slips.
9. Right Uppercut + Left Hook (6-3 Combo)
Here’s one of the combinations you want to use when you’re up close and personal with your opponent. The uppercut lifts up their chin, and the hook cleans up.
- Setup: Throw after parrying their jab.
- Footwork: Cut the angle to your left to avoid counters.
Pro insight: This combo works wonders in the clinch. Just ask Canelo Álvarez.
10. Jab + Cross + Left Uppercut (1-2-5 Combo)
Jab-cross-uppercut = the ultimate “stop blocking your face” sequence.
- Timing: Wait a split second after the cross before firing the uppercut.
- Drill: Shadowbox in slow motion to perfect the flow.
Common mistake: Dropping your left hand after the cross. Keep that guard up!
11. Left Uppercut + Right Uppercut + Left Hook (5-6-3 Combo)
The “corner destroyer”. Pin your opponent against the ropes and unleash hell.
- Body shots: Alternate the hook to the head and body to keep them guessing.
- Caution: Don’t get overeager. Stay balanced to avoid eating a counter.
Training hack: Practice this combo on a heavy bag while moving forward.
12. Jab + Cross + Jab (1-2-1 Combo)
Confusion 101. Your opponent will expect a hook after the cross, but the jab resets the action.
- Use case: Outboxing taller opponents.
- Speed drill: Time yourself throwing 10 reps in 15 seconds.
Funny analogy: This combo is the “fake left, real right, fake left again” of boxing.
13. Left Hook + Right Hook (3-4 Combo)
Double the hooks, double the drama. Ideal for swarming aggressive fighters.
- Key: Pivot both feet with each hook for maximum torque.
- Defense: Slip to the right after the second hook to evade counters.
Pro tip: Aim the right hook at the temple. It’s the “off button” for most humans.
14. Jab + Right Uppercut + Left Hook (1-6-3 Combo)
A close-range blitz. Use feints to get inside, then unload.
- Setup: Fake a body jab to make them drop their hands.
- Footwork: Burst forward with the jab, then plant your feet for the uppercut.
Gear plug: Mouthguards are non-negotiable here. You’ll be in the danger zone.
15. Cross + Left Hook + Right Uppercut (2-3-6 Combo)
The grand finale. Stun, exploit, and finish opponents with this combination.
- Flow: The cross stuns, the hook opens their guard, and the uppercut sends them to dreamland.
- Advanced move: Add a shovel hook to the body after the uppercut.
Science fact: The uppercut’s upward force can cause whiplash, making it the go-to technique of many of the best finishers in boxing history, like Mike Tyson.
How to Practice These Combos Like a Pro
- Shadowboxing: Perfect for muscle memory. No gear is needed!
- Heavy bag: Focus on speed and power. Imagine the bag owes you money.
- Partner drills: Use focus mitts to simulate real reactions.
Pro tip: Record yourself training. You’ll spot flaws (like chicken-wing hooks) instantly.
Make These Combinations Your Own
These 15 combos are your foundation, but don’t be afraid to mix them up. Add feints, change speeds, or tack on extra punches. Remember, boxing is chess with fists.
Now get out there and start throwing combos that’ll make your opponents say, “Wait, is that legal?”
Need gear? Check out some of the best boxing gloves for beginners. Your knuckles will thank you.
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