Jab-Cross-Hook (1-2-3)
- Striking
- Combinations
- intermediate
- Orthodox stance
- 5 steps
The classic three-punch combination chaining straight punches into a turning lead hook. Also known as the One-two-three. Here is the exact breakdown from the DARCE app: 5 steps, the details that make it work, and the mistakes to avoid.
When to use it
Use the one-two-three when the one-two is landing or being blocked high. The cross turns your hips and loads the hook, which lands as they cover the straight punches. Send the hook to the body when they keep their elbows high.
Step by step
- 01
Set your stance
Balanced and relaxed, hands up.
- 02
Jab (1)
Set the range and hide what follows.
- 03
Cross (2)
Rear-hand cross down the middle, rotating the hip.
- 04
Lead hook (3)
As the cross returns, pivot and turn the lead hook over. The hips are already loaded.
- 05
Recover to guard
Reset both hands and your base. Never admire your work.
Key details
- Each punch flows into the next. The cross loads the hook.
- Keep the non-punching hand at the chin.
- Stay balanced; do not lunge after the combination.
Common mistakes
- Pausing between punches and losing the loading.
- Throwing all three to the same spot.
- Falling forward off-balance after the hook.
Common counters
Opponents roll under the hook and return their own, or step out of range after the cross. A pause before the hook gives it away. Keep the three punches as one flowing motion.
How to drill it
The mitt holder takes jab, cross and lead hook, then throws a return hook for you to roll under. Do three rounds of three minutes, adding a cross after the roll once it is smooth.
Related techniques
- Jab-Cross (1-2)StrikingThe foundational straight-punch combination: lead-hand jab into rear-hand cross.
- Jab-Cross-Low KickStrikingA kickboxing staple: punches up high to freeze the hands, then a low kick to the legs.
- JabStrikingThe lead-hand straight punch: your range-finder, rhythm-setter and the setup for everything else.
- CrossStrikingThe rear-hand straight punch: your primary power shot, driven by rotating the hip and pivoting the rear foot.
- Lead HookStrikingA short horizontal lead-hand punch that turns through the side of the target on the pivot of the hips.
- Rear HookStrikingA power hook from the rear hand, turning the whole body to land on the side of the head.
Train it with the AI coach