How To Fight Like Buakaw | 5 Keys

Summary

In this video, the presenter breaks down five key techniques that make Buakaw's fighting style so effective. These include his use of the left switch kick for both offense and defense, his jab technique with a head drop for added safety, his unique front kick, and hand positioning for powerful knee strikes. Buakaw's long guard and exceptional core conditioning also play crucial roles in his success. The video encourages viewers to incorporate these strategies into their training to elevate their own fighting game, ultimately helping them emulate Buakaw's mastery in the ring.

Takeaways

• 😀 Buakaw's style is built on effective transitions between offense and defense, like his left switch kick which he uses both offensively and defensively.
• 😀 To improve your skill set, study the highest level fighters and experiment with their techniques, incorporating what works for you into your own style.
• 😀 Buakaw’s left switch kick is effective because he can control range, moving slightly forward to land the kick, then quickly retreating or adjusting to avoid counters.
• 😀 One of Buakaw's key defensive strategies is dropping his head while throwing jabs, which makes him less vulnerable to looping shots and straight punches.
• 😀 When Buakaw jabs, his head is tucked behind his shoulder, giving him better protection and allowing his elbow to block any potential counter uppercuts.
• 😀 Buakaw's front kick is performed like a Thai side kick, targeting the opponent's beltline and often forcing them to retreat, while also keeping his arms extended for defense.
• 😀 By keeping his arms out during his front kicks, Buakaw creates an additional defense layer, ready to deflect counterattacks while landing his own strikes.
• 😀 Buakaw uses his hand positioning during knee strikes to create a barrier, maintaining distance and protecting himself from incoming punches while landing the knee.
• 😀 Buakaw's long guard is a unique defensive strategy where he keeps his hands extended in front of him, ready to react and post against incoming strikes.
• 😀 Buakaw’s long guard allows him to remain protected while constantly moving, transitioning into his next strike, like a switch or round kick, from a safe position.

Q & A

What is the primary reason Buakaw's left switch kick is so effective?

Buakaw's left switch kick is effective because he uses it to control range. He can land the kick offensively, and then quickly transition to defense by moving backward, preventing his opponent from countering effectively. This combination of offense and defense in a single move gives him control over the exchange.

How does Buakaw's head drop during his jab improve his defense?

When Buakaw jabs, he drops his head slightly, tucking his chin behind his shoulder. This makes it difficult for opponents to land looping shots or straight punches. The head drop protects him by covering his chin while also preparing him to block any potential uppercuts with his elbow.

What makes Buakaw's front kick different from a typical front kick?

Buakaw’s front kick is unique because he kicks through his opponent like a Thai sidekick, while also extending his arms. This arm extension serves as a defensive barrier against incoming punches and helps him control range, making it harder for his opponent to counter while he maintains his offense.

How does Buakaw use his hands when throwing knees?

When Buakaw throws knees, he uses his hands as barriers to protect his head and upper body from incoming punches. By positioning his arms out, he creates a shield that deflects punches, allowing him to land his knee strike with minimal risk of being hit.

Why is Buakaw's long guard technique so effective?

Buakaw’s long guard technique is effective because his hands are positioned out in front, creating a defensive barrier that can deflect incoming punches. It allows him to maintain a safe distance while still being able to quickly respond with attacks, such as a switch kick or round kick.

What are the key benefits of Buakaw’s head position when he drops his head during jabs?

By dropping his head when he jabs, Buakaw effectively limits the angles from which opponents can land punches. This makes him less vulnerable to looping strikes or straight shots and enhances his ability to block incoming uppercuts with his elbow.

How does Buakaw’s use of footwork complement his switch kick?

Buakaw’s footwork is crucial in making his switch kick effective. By taking small steps forward and backward, he can land the kick while controlling the range, making it difficult for his opponent to counter. This fluid movement between offense and defense allows him to dominate exchanges.

Why does Buakaw extend his arms during his front kick?

Buakaw extends his arms during his front kick to act as a defensive shield. The extended arms create a barrier that deflects any incoming punches, making it harder for his opponent to counter while he is executing his kick.

What is the purpose of Buakaw’s hand positioning when performing his knee strikes?

The purpose of Buakaw’s hand positioning during knee strikes is to block and deflect any punches that might come towards his head. By placing his arms in the right position, he protects himself while delivering an offensive knee, keeping his defense and attack synchronized.

How does Buakaw’s long guard help him avoid taking damage?

The long guard allows Buakaw to maintain a safe distance by keeping his hands out in front to deflect strikes. His head stays protected behind his guard, and when an opponent attacks, Buakaw can quickly adjust, step back, and counter, minimizing the chances of getting hit while setting up his own strikes.