Issue 067

Join Wanderlei Silva and Rafael Cordeiro and learn their adaptation of Muay Thai for MMA.

This issue: Ong-Bak-style mid-air techniques aren’t just for Anthony Pettis. Stun YouTube with this jaw-dropping flying knee...

1: Rafael and Wanderlei square off in the cage. Rafael throws a searching jab to set up the combination.

2: Rafael raises his right leg in a similar motion to checking an incoming front leg kick from Wanderlei.

3: Rather than bring his leg back, Rafael places it firmly just above Wanderlei’s knee on the front of his sparring partner’s thigh.

4: Rafael pushes off powerfully but gracefully with his right leg, using Wanderlei’s thigh as a platform to spring from.

5: Rafael’s now in the air. See how he’s bringing up his left leg ready to strike Wanderlei’s head area with his left knee.

6: Before executing the knee, Rafael goes for a clinch mid-air, bringing Wanderlei’s head down at the precise time he strikes with the left knee. Following the successful strike he lands to earth and adjusts his balance if necessary.