Check Hook

Less a punch than a tactic — the check hook is a lead hook thrown while simultaneously pivoting off the lead foot, taking the body off-line from a charging opponent. Made famous by Floyd Mayweather Jr.'s 2007 finish of Ricky Hatton, the check hook lets a counterpuncher meet a forward-rushing opponent with a hook and then immediately step out at an angle, leaving the opponent punching at empty space. The technique requires a deep understanding of pressure footwork and is one of the highest-skill punches in boxing.

Key points

• ▸Pivot off the lead foot AT THE MOMENT of throwing the hook.
• ▸Step the rear foot to the outside as the lead foot pivots.
• ▸Land the hook at a 45° angle to the now-empty space behind you.
• ▸Keep the lead hand short — this is not a power hook.
• ▸Use only against a forward-rushing opponent; against a stationary target it has no advantage.

Common mistakes

• ✗Throwing the hook before pivoting — caught coming in.
• ✗Pivoting too late — the opponent has already taken the angle from you.
• ✗Trying to load up the hook with power — defeats the purpose.
• ✗Using it against a defensive opponent — useless if they are not pressing.

Drills

1. Footwork drill: have a partner step toward you while you pivot and throw the check hook with no contact.
2. Mitts: catcher rushes forward; you pivot left, hook, and end at 90° to your starting line.
3. Shadow: every third hook in a 3-round shadow-box is a check hook with a deliberate pivot-out.

Related techniques