Issue 133

October 2015

Rafael Cordeiro with Fernando Bettega

Muay Thai master and head coach at the elite Kings MMA gym in Huntington Beach

A classic Thai technique that turns defense into attack so your opponent wonders what hit them 

1 - With both starting in an orthodox stance, Rafael (left) jabs with his left hand. Fernando avoids it by slipping his head to the right.

2 - As Fernando’s head returns to the centre line, Rafael has already committed to throwing the right cross. Knowing that this is common practice, Fernando anticipates the strike and slips to his left. 

3 - With his weight loaded onto his left foot, Fernando throws a right body kick to Rafael’s exposed midsection. 

4 - Fernando resets to his orthodox stance with a high guard to defend any further punches.

PRO TIP

Try slipping after every combination you throw. Your opponent won’t fire back every time but it’s a good habit to get into. If you wait until your opponent throws a punch before attempting to slip, you may still end up with a fist in your face. 

When you slip punches, keep your head in line with your knee. This will help you maintain your balance and allow you to counter your opponent’s attack sharply.