Common Boxing Terminology

Boxing is not the most complicated sport in the world, but there are plenty of terms used during a match that new viewers might not understand straight away.

Most of these related directly to the more commonly utilised manoeuvres used in boxing, and are usually some of the first moves taught to a new boxer.

For those wanting to learn more about the terms used in boxing and how they work, these are the ones that will most often be encountered, and should help those interested or new punters learn more about the game if they’re looking for more opportunities in the betting world, especially after finding success in online bingo NZ.

Cross

A cross is where the boxer makes use of their dominant hand when punching their opponent. It’s often used as a counter move to a jab, and is aimed toward the chin, where the punch is used with strength supported by most of the upper body.

The torso and hips will rotate counter-clockwise to allow the weight of the body to give this move more power.

Jab

The jab is usually the very first move that a boxer will learn when they get into the training ring, and it remains a staple of all modern matches. The purpose of the jab is to keep the opponent from getting to close, and is usually always led with the less dominant hand, while both fists are up near the face, providing much needed protection from any surprise attacks.

The boxer will often be standing with their knees bent and their back heels lifted, giving them the opportunity to dodge or move aside to get out of the way of an oncoming punch. The jab is a simple move, but it can take a long time to truly perfect.

Hook

The hook is the move used in boxing that, if successful, is enough to put the opponent down for the rest of the match. Considered the most powerful punch in the playbook, the hook can be used with either hand, and many beginners usually learn to throw a hook with both their dominant and less dominant hand.

This allows them to shift their weight more easily, where they can generate enough energy through their upper body and hips to allow for a harder punch.

Uppercut

Next to the hook is the uppercut, which many consider to be just as deadly. This is an intense shot that is used as self-defence, and sees the boxer having to move in a similar way to the cross or hook.

They will come at their opponent with their punch at an upward angle, hoping to contact with the lower jaw, and a correctly placed uppercut is usually enough to leave the receiver dazed and confused enough to not put up any reasonable defence.