Check Hook (counter)

A counter for a forward-rushing opponent: pivot the lead foot off-line while throwing a lead hook, leaving the opponent punching air and you at a 90° angle to where they thought you'd be. Floyd Mayweather's 2007 finish of Ricky Hatton is the textbook example.

Key points

• ▸Pivot off the lead foot as the punch is thrown — simultaneous.
• ▸The rear foot follows the pivot — small arc behind.
• ▸The hook is short and snappy, not a power shot.
• ▸End up at a 90° angle to the starting line.

Common mistakes

• ✗Throwing before pivoting — caught coming in.
• ✗Pivoting too late — opponent has already passed.
• ✗Loading up the hook — defeats the speed of the counter.

Drills

1. Partner drill: partner walks forward; you pivot and check-hook.
2. Footwork drill: 5 rounds of check-hook pivots without contact.

Related techniques