Issue 140

January 2019

Set up your opponent with a slick combo so you can hit them where it hurts.

Expert: Rafael Cordeiro: Head coach at Kings MMA in Huntington Beach, California. Cordeiro teaches you masterful Muay Thai with Fernando Bettega.

1 - Fernando throws a jab at Rafael, but Rafael slips his head slightly to the right and the punch goes past his head.

2 - Fernando follows up by throwing a cross, but Rafael dodges again by slipping his head slightly to his left.

3 - Rafael counters with a jab, but Fernando moves his head off the centerline, switches stance and punches with his left hand. 

4 - Fernando uses his right hand to catch Rafael’s elbow on his outstretched left arm and uses his left hand to hook Rafael’s head.

5 - Fernando’s control of the arm leaves Rafael’s body exposed. Fernando pulls down on Rafael’s head and fires a left knee into his mid section. 

TOP TIPS

STUDENT

Always knee with your back leg to generate maximum power. It has a greater distance to travel so you’ll gain more momentum with the strike.

KRU

Throwing a punch while switching your stance will disguise your footwork.

MASTER

If your opponent slips your jab, step in and hit them with a lead elbow. If your opponent slips your cross, step in with a rear- arm elbow. Timing is crucial, but you can catch them as they return their head to the centerline.