Counterpunch (boxing)

This article is about the boxing punch. For other uses, see Counterpunch (disambiguation).

A counterpunch is a boxing punch that immediately follows an attack launched by an opponent. It exploits the opening created by an opponent's guard.

Technique

Counter punchers are tactical, defensive fighters who rely on opponent mistakes in order to gain an attacking advantage to get score cards or the chance of a knockout. They use their well-rounded defensive skills to avoid or block shots in order immediately to place well-timed punches on opponents who have lost their guard.

Boxers who fight against counter punchers must constantly feint and conceal their offensive punches to prevent anticipation for the counterpunch. Successful boxers who use this style must have good reflexes, intelligence, punch accuracy and better-than-average hand speed.

Boxer B makes a left jab counter-punch to the body following Boxer A's right straight punch. Boxer A's left jab is countered with Boxer B throwing a right straight punch to the head. Boxer B uses a bolo punch as an effective counter-punch to a left jab from Boxer A.

Notable exponents

Floyd Mayweather, Jr. Juan Manuel Marquez Jerry Quarry Ricardo Lopez

Bernard Hopkins James Toney Marvin Hagler

Evander Holyfield Roy Jones Jr. Pernell Whitaker