Right Uppercut at Mid-Range – Clinical Punching!

About the Mid-Range Right Uppercut

Uppercuts are the most technically challenging shots that a boxer uses.  They are thrown relatively rarely in comparison to other punches because of the technical difficulty associated with landing the shot and because it carries with it a higher degree of risk than many other shots.

By examining and understanding the elements of the mid-range right uppercut shown in this video, you will be able to deploy the uppercut in the correct circumstances and maximise the impact of the shot when it lands.

A key point to note is that any uppercut has to take a vertical trajectory in order to be described as an uppercut.  The intention of the shot is to travel through the guarding arms of the opponent to land underneath the chin.  If the shot deviates from the vertical, it is likely to be deflected harmlessly away by the guarding arms.  In order to enable the vertical trajectory of the uppercut, the body has to make very considerable efforts in terms of drive and rotation; be sure to closely examine the mechanics of the shot described below and within the video.

Finally, in the video presentation, I am guilty of leaving the hand on the target for too long (although my reasons are genuine in that I am attempting to emphasise the vertical position of the arm).  As with all other punches, get your hand back to the guard position immediately.

The Mechanics of the Mid-Range Right Uppercut

The mechanics of the mid-range right uppercut can be explained as follows:

1. From the boxing stance, the first action is a push from the back foot which results in ‘drive’ up through the leg.  This drive rotates the hips, driving the right hip anti-clockwise and upward.
2. As the rotation is taking place, the right arm drives/accelerates upwards and vertically toward the target.
3. As the hand approaches the target, the fist clenches and ‘snaps’ on to the target.  When the shot lands, the arm is in an ‘L’ shape.
4. At no point does the boxer’s weight transfer forward.  On the contrary, the boxer’s weight is firmly on the back leg.
5. After the shot lands, the arm returns to the ‘home’ position as quickly as possible as per the boxing stance.

Common Faults with the Mid-Range Right Uppercut

The common faults that can occur when throwing a mid-range right uppercut are:

1. A very common problem is that as the shot is being thrown, the fist travels down first and then up towards the target.  This leaves too much of an opening and offers a real opportunity for the opponent to quickly land a shot before the uppercut actually hits it’s target.  Be as direct as possible with the shot.
2. There is a lack of rotation in the body, meaning that the punch does not land in a vertical position.  To maximise the impact of the shot, ensure the arm is vertical when the punch lands.
3. The head can often lift as the shot goes, leaving you open to attack (remember that your chin should remain tucked in close to the chest at all times).

If you work on getting the technique of the shot, the mid-range right uppercut is a great punch to use.  If it lands correctly, it will have the desired effect and will create openings for any subsequent shot, such as the mid-range left hook.  Be sure to leave some comments or questions below.  If you are looking for other right hand uppercuts, check out the short range right uppercut or the long range right uppercut.

Cheers

Fran

by