combinationsadvanced
Slip-Cross Combo
A defensive-to-offensive transition: slip outside the opponent's jab and immediately fire the rear-hand cross down the now-open centre line. This is the highest-percentage counter combination in boxing. James Toney made an entire career out of slip-cross.
Key points
- ▸Slip outside the jab — shoulder and head move together.
- ▸Cross travels through the now-open centre line.
- ▸Rear-foot pivot delivers the power.
- ▸Lead hand returns immediately to guard.
- ▸Step off at an angle after the cross.
Common mistakes
- ✗Slipping the wrong direction (inside) — runs into the cross.
- ✗Slow on the cross — opponent recovers before the punch lands.
- ✗No step-off — caught by a hook counter.
Drills
- Partner drill: partner throws single jabs at moderate speed; you slip and counter.
- Mitts: catcher throws single jabs; you slip outside and land the cross.
- Shadow: 5 rounds of slip-cross only.