Issue 115

June 2014

Former Fighters Only World MMA Awards ‘Coach of the Year’ and Kings MMA head trainer Rafael Cordeiro teaches his adaptation of Muay Thai for MMA, with help from student and Strikeforce veteran Fernando Bettega.

1. Rafael (right) and Fernando start in orthodox stances – left leg forward.

2. As Fernando throws a left hook, Rafael steps out to his left and stiff-arms Fernando’s hook by putting his right hand to Fernando’s left shoulder. Note: Rafael’s shoulder is protecting his chin from Fernando’s hook.

3. Immediately afterward, Rafael uses his right hand to grab behind Fernando’s head.

4. As he pulls on Fernando’s head, Rafael turns his body to the left to create space for his right knee strike. As he pushes himself into the air with his left leg, Rafael begins to swing his right knee up and around.

5. Bringing his right knee to Fernando’s head, Rafael connects with the jumping strike.