Top 10 MMA Techniques Every Fighter Should Know
Top 10 MMA Techniques Every Fighter Should Know
Blog Article
Top 10 MMA Techniques Every Fighter Should Know
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has become one of the most demanding and thrilling combat sports in the world. It’s a dynamic blend of striking and grappling, combining techniques from various disciplines such as boxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, wrestling, Muay Thai, judo, and more. For both aspiring fighters and curious fans, understanding the core techniques of MMA is essential. Below are the top 10 MMA techniques every fighter should master, whether training to compete or simply to gain a deeper appreciation of the sport.
Jab (Boxing)
Why it’s essential:
The jab is the most fundamental punch in a striker’s arsenal. It helps control distance, sets up combinations, and disrupts the opponent’s rhythm. Slot gacor maxwin
Execution basics:
From a proper stance, snap the lead hand forward with speed.
Keep the shoulder high to protect the chin.
Retract the hand quickly for defense and combo transitions.
Pro tip: A sharp, well-timed jab can shut down even the most aggressive opponents, acting as both an offensive weapon and a defensive barrier.
Low Kick (Muay Thai)
Why it’s essential:
Low kicks target the opponent’s thighs, weakening their base and mobility. Over time, this damage limits movement and power output.
Execution basics:
Pivot on the support foot while swinging the rear leg.
Strike with the shin, not the foot, for maximum impact.
Aim for the thigh or calf, depending on angle and opening.
Pro tip: Set up low kicks with punches to avoid counters and maximize effectiveness.
Double-Leg Takedown (Wrestling)
Why it’s essential:
This is one of the most reliable takedowns in MMA. It’s fast, powerful, and effective at changing the fight’s pace.
Execution basics:
Lower your level and shoot in at the hips.
Secure both legs with your arms.
Drive forward and lift or push the opponent off balance to complete the takedown.
Pro tip: Timing and level changes are key. Combine with feints to increase success rate.
Rear-Naked Choke (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu)
Why it’s essential:
One of the most successful submissions in MMA history, this choke works when taking the opponent’s back.
Execution basics:
Slip one arm under the opponent’s chin and lock it with the other arm.
Secure the position with hooks (legs wrapped around opponent).
Squeeze gradually and tighten the grip using the back muscles.
Pro tip: Patience and control are crucial. Ensure the opponent can’t escape before committing to the squeeze.
Triangle Choke (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu)
Why it’s essential:
Effective from the guard position, the triangle choke uses the legs to trap and submit an opponent.
Execution basics:
Trap the opponent’s neck and one arm between your legs.
Lock the legs in a figure-four position.
Pull the head down to apply pressure.
Pro tip: Use wrist control and angles to set up the triangle without exposing yourself to strikes.
Clinch Control (Muay Thai & Wrestling)
Why it’s essential:
Controlling the clinch neutralizes striking and opens up takedowns or knees.
Execution basics:
Use underhooks or a Thai plum (double collar tie) for dominant control.
Maintain head position and balance.
Transition smoothly between strikes, throws, or disengaging.
Pro tip: Practice clinch transitions regularly. It’s a pivotal zone in MMA, especially against aggressive strikers.
Sprawl (Wrestling & MMA Defense)
Why it’s essential:
A key defensive maneuver, sprawling stops takedowns and maintains the fight on the feet.
Execution basics:
When the opponent shoots, kick your legs back and drop your hips.
Use your chest to drive down on their shoulders.
Control the head or arms to prevent follow-ups.
Pro tip: Don’t overextend your sprawl—maintain balance for quick recovery or counter attacks.
Ground and Pound (MMA-Specific)
Why it’s essential:
Once on top, ground and pound allows you to damage and control the opponent, influencing judges or setting up submissions.
Execution basics:
Establish dominant top control (mount or guard pass).
Posture up and strike with elbows or punches.
Maintain base to avoid sweeps or submissions.
Pro tip: Mix up strikes with positional advances. Don’t get greedy and risk losing position.
Leg Lock Entries (Modern BJJ/MMA)
Why it’s essential:
Leg locks, especially heel hooks and ankle locks, are increasingly effective in MMA due to their quick finish potential.
Execution basics:
Use entries like Ashi Garami or 50/50 from the bottom.
Control the hips and isolate the leg.
Apply gradual, controlled pressure to avoid scrambles.
Pro tip: Be wary of exposing your face or compromising position while fishing for legs.
Head Movement and Footwork (Boxing & Kickboxing)
Why it’s essential:
Good head movement and footwork reduce damage taken and open up angles for attack.
Execution basics:
Use slips, rolls, and lateral steps to evade.
Always stay on the balls of your feet for mobility.
Combine with feints and level changes.
Pro tip: Watch fighters like Dominic Cruz or Israel Adesanya for masterclass examples of movement and positioning.
Bonus Tips for MMA Training
Cross-Training Is Crucial: Train in multiple disciplines—wrestling, BJJ, boxing, Muay Thai—to build a well-rounded game.
Conditioning Matters: MMA is as much about cardio and endurance as it is about technique.
Fight IQ and Strategy: Knowing when to apply which technique is as important as the technique itself.
Drill, Drill, Drill: Repetition builds muscle memory. Every great fighter drilled basics thousands of times.
Conclusion
Whether you're training to become a professional MMA fighter or just want to level up your skills for fitness and self-defense, mastering these 10 techniques gives you a solid foundation. The beauty of MMA lies in its diversity—every fighter brings their own style and game plan. But at the heart of every great MMA competitor is a deep understanding of the fundamentals, sharpened by discipline, hard work, and constant evolution.