For a newbie, boxing terminology may sound confusing. You will regularly hear such boxing phrases in the gym. And if you are just getting into the sport, you may be scratching your head wondering what they all mean.
Some of these are pretty straightforward, and the term itself will be a giveaway. For example, block, head-butt, elbow, etc. However, there are some other colorful words you should familiarize yourself with to understand the sport.
Below is a list of the most commonly used boxing terms in alphabetical order. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Boxing Terms Commonly Used
- A
- B
- C
- D
- E
- F
- G
- H
- I
- J
- K
- L
- M
- N
- O
- P
- R
- S
- T
- U
- V
- W
Boxing Terms Commonly Used
A
Accidental Head Butt – It occurs when two boxers head-butt each other during the fight. There is no penalty for this.
Alias – A nickname a boxer gives himself.
Alphabet Soup – It refers to the abbreviations for various boxing bodies.
Amateur – When a boxer makes a name for himself by participating in matches with the sole purpose of only gaining experience. The amateur boxer does not get paid for it.
Apron – Apron is the small portion of the ring that is outside of the ropes.
B
Backpedal – To move away from the opponent to avoid his attacks.
Be First – Being aggressive in the fight and striking first.
Bell – The bell signals the start and end of the round.
Below the Belt – Below the belt is hitting a boxer below the waistband of his trunk. The move is not allowed and results in a warning or point deduction.
Bleeder – A boxer who bleeds easily.
Blow-by-Blow – Blow-by-blow refers to a detailed description of the boxing match by broadcasters who describe the fight as it goes.
Bob and Weave – Bob and weave are defensive maneuvers done to avoid the punches.
Body Work – Targeting the opponent’s mid-section to knock him out or push him back.
Bolo Punch – This is one of the boxing terms for punches. A bolo punch is a combination of a hook and an uppercut. It is thrown to distract an opponent on which type of attack is coming.
Bout – Another word for a boxing match.
C
Canvas – The floor of the boxing ring is called a canvas.
Card – A list of fights happening in a boxing event.
Caught Cold – When a boxer loses a fight because he was not prepared mentally or physically.
Clinch – A defensive tactic employed by a boxer involves holding his opponent and preventing him from attacking.
Challenger – A boxer who will go against the current champion.
Champion – The one who has the title.
Combination – Multiple punches thrown in a single go without any break are called a combination. It usually consists of 2 to 3 different strikes.
Chief Second – The person is responsible for the fighter’s corner. He makes sure the rest of the team members are following the rules.
Contender – A boxer who has worked up his way in the ranks, making him worthy enough to challenge the current champion.
Corkscrew Punch – A corkscrew punch is a punch that is thrown in a twisting motion to cause a cut.
Cornerman – Any member of the boxer’s team who is liable to tend to the fighter’s needs during the break is a cornerman. It can be a coach or the cutman.
Counterpunch – A punch is thrown back or returned as a response to an offensive move by the opponent.
Cover-Up – When a boxer raises his hands and covers his face to avoid his opponent’s punches. It is a defensive move and is usually employed when a boxer can’t fight back or is afraid of getting knocked out and needs some time to recover.
Cross – A cross is a power punch thrown with the rear hand. The boxer twists his body when throwing the punch to add more force to it.
Cruiserweight – The cruiserweight class includes boxers whose weight is less than 200 pounds.
Cutman – A cutman is responsible for controlling the cuts and swelling, making it easy for the boxer to compete.
Cutting-off-the-Ring – Cut off the ring is a technique in which a boxer goes sideways, matching his opponent’s steps. With each movement, the boxer steps forward, closing the gap and restricting his opponent from running away.
D
Decision – A decision is taken by the judges based on the scorecard when the match is over and there is no clear winner or if the fight ends quickly because of an accidental head butt or injury.
Disqualification – This happens when a boxer gets disqualified because of repeated fouls.
Dive – When a boxer pretends to go down for the count.
Down and Out – When a boxer gets knocked out and can’t get up before the count.
Draw – The bout ends up being even after all the judges’ scores are tallied.
Defense – When a boxer goes defensive, blocking and parrying his opponent’s punches.
E
Eight Count – If a fighter needs time to recover or assess the situation after being knocked down, the referee starts counting to eight.
Enswell – An enswell is a metal tool used by the cutman to apply on cuts and bruises. It is kept on ice, so the cold metal can stop the bleeding and reduce the swelling.
Evasion – Evasion is to miss an opponent’s attack by dodging the punch.
F
Faded – Faded refers to a boxer who can’t continue the fight because he is out of gas or a boxer whose overall performance is not what it used to be.
Feint – To feint or fake a punch, forcing the opponent to make an unnecessary move.
Flash Knockdown – Flash knockdown means when a boxer goes down quickly but quickly recovers and gets on his feet without any injury.
Foul – To break one of the boxing rules is known as a foul.
Fringe Contender – A boxer making his way into the higher ranks but is not well known is called a fringe contender.
Featherweight – The featherweight class includes boxers whose weight is 126 pounds or less.
Floor – Floor means when a boxer knocks his opponent down with great force.
Flyweight – The flyweight or paperweight class includes boxers whose weight is 112 pounds or less.
Footwork – The way a boxer moves in the ring is called footwork.
G
Gate – The amount of money that is earned from the sale of tickets for an event.
Gatekeeper – A boxer who is well known but is not considered to be championship material.
Glass Jaw – A boxer who gets knocked out easily is referred to as having a glass jaw.
Go the Distance – It means to fight the whole match without getting knocked out.
Go to the Body – Attacking the opponent’s mid-section or abdominal area means going to the body.
Go to the Cards – When there is no clear winner, the final decision depends on the score cards.
Governing Body – An organization that authorizes or approves fights and dictates the rules for each boxing match.
Groin Protector – Protective gear is worn to guard the groin area.
H
Hand Wraps – Hand wraps are cotton bandages worn by fighters to protect their hands.
Haymaker – A haymaker is a full-force punch thrown with the aim of a knockout.
Head Butt – When the boxers’ heads collide with each other by mistake or if one intentionally head-butts the other.
Head Hunting – A boxer who ignores shots to the body and only aims for the head.
Heavyweight – The heavyweight class includes boxers whose weight is over 200 pounds.
Hugging – Hugging is another term used for clinching or holding the opponent.
Hook – As the name describes it, a hook is a punch thrown by rotating the body and hitting with the front hand and the elbow up and in line with the punch.
I
Infighting – Infighting means boxing at close range without the need for extending the arms fully.
J
Jab – A jab is a punch thrown by the front hand without a lot of body twisting for excessive force.
Journeyman – A journeyman is a boxer who has skills but is not considered a contender.
K
Kidney Punch – An illegal blow landed at the opponent’s kidney area, which is the lower back.
Knockdown – When a boxer goes down on the mat.
Knockout/KO – When a boxer is punched with excessive force and is rendered unconscious.
L
Light Flyweight – The light flyweight class includes boxers whose weight is 108 pounds or less.
Light Welterweight – The light welterweight class includes boxers whose weight is 140 pounds or less.
Light Middleweight – The light middleweight class includes boxers whose weight is 154 pounds or less.
Light Heavyweight – The light heavyweight class includes boxers whose weight is 175 pounds or less.
Lineal Champion – Lineal champion means a boxer who won the title from his opponent who won it from another champion, and this line continues.
Low Blow – An illegal blow landed below the boxer’s waistband.
M
Main Event – The main fight or most recognizable fight, usually a prestigious or title match
Mauler – Mauler is a boxer who is offensive and strikes his opponent as hard as he can with technique. He tries to batter his opponent by making it difficult for them to fight back.
Majority Decision – Out of the three judges, two of them score in favor of one boxer while the third calls it a draw.
Majority Draw – Majority Draw is the opposite of the term majority decision. It is when two judges score the fight as a draw and the third scores in favor of one of the boxers.
Middleweight – The middleweight class includes boxers whose weight is 160 pounds or less.
Minimumweight – The minimumweight class includes boxers whose weight is 105 pounds or less.
Mouse – A bump of swelling on the boxer’s face after the fight is referred to as a mouse.
Mouth Guard – The mouth guard is also known as a mouthpiece. It is a piece of protective equipment placed in the mouth. Fighters bite on the mouth guard to protect their teeth and jaw from breaking.
Match Maker – A person who organizes boxing events and draws the fight card is known as a matchmaker.
N
Neutral Corner – A neutral corner is a corner not assigned to any fighter. When a boxer is knocked down, the opponent must go to one of the neutral corners while the referee starts the count.
No Decision – No Decision means when there is no winner. It happens when the fight is over, and a no decision is declared or when the no decision has already been decided by the fighters
No Count – No count is also referred to as a flash knockdown. It happens when the boxers get knocked down but stand up quickly before the referee can begin the count.
Novice – Boxers who have competed in fewer than ten sanctioned fights are considered novices.
Number One Contender – After the world champion, the second best fight in a weight class is considered a number contender.
O
On the Ropes – This term refers to a fighter who leans against the ropes.
Orthodox – Orthodox is a fighting stance when a right-handed fighter has his left hand and foot forward and his right foot back.
Outpoint – Outpoint means when a boxer scores more points because of landing more strikes that connected but doesn’t knockout his opponent.
Outside Fighter – An outsider fighter means that a boxer doesn’t fight at close range. He keeps his distance and utilized the jab often.
Overhand – An overhand is a punch that a boxer throws while bobbing. It is thrown with the rear hand in a semi-circular motion.
One-two Combo – A one-two combo consists of two punches, a jab, and a cross, thrown one after the other.
Opening – This means an opening in the boxer’s defense.
P
Parry – Parry means to block the punch and push it away from yourself.
Play Possum – When a boxer acts injured or tired during the fight to trick his opponent is known as playing possum.
Plodder – Plodder refers to a heavy-footed, slow fighter.
Point Deduction – When a point is deducted from the scorecard by the referee because of a foul or when a boxer ignores several warnings given by the referee.
Prizefighter – When a boxer participates in a boxing match only for the money.
Promoter – A promoter is a person or an organization responsible for managing the boxing event.
Pull – A pull is when a boxer leans back or steps away to avoid getting hit. It is a defensive move and can be considered a dodge.
Pull Your Punches – Pull your punches mean that a boxer does not punch with full force. It is usually done during sparring or when a boxer attempts to trick his opponent, to make him feel safe, and then lands a power punch.
Puncher’s Chance – A boxer who is outmatched and has no chance of winning except by landing power punches hoping for a knockout.
Punch Mitts – Punch mitts, also known as mitts, are thick pads worn by trainers. They provide a moving target for boxers to punch at and are a great starting point for beginners. They are also used to practice specific combinations. The trainer can also use the mitts to throw light punches mimicking an opponent’s move that a boxer can dodge.
Purse – The amount of money a boxer earns after a fight.
R
Rabbit Punch – A rabbit punch is an illegal punch that lands on the back of a fighter’s head. It is dangerous and similar to the way a hunter kills a rabbit, hence the name rabbit punch.
Ring Generalship – Ring Generalship means how a boxer takes command of the situation in the ring to his advantage and controls his opponent.
Ringside – The spectator seats close to the boxing ring are known as ringside.
Roadwork – Fighters do this type of training to prepare for boxing matches by running, jogging, or sprinting.
Roll with the Punches – When a boxer moves his body the same way as the opponent’s punch, it is referred to as roll with the punches. The benefit of this maneuver is to avoid getting hit or lessen the impact received from the strike.
Rope-a-Dope – Attempting to outlast or tire an opponent while on the ropes.
Roughhousing – Roughhousing is an offensive tactic employed by boxers hoping to land a punch that is dangerous and illegal. Usually done by those who believe they can’t win the match.
Rubber Match – The rubber match refers to a third fight between two fighters who have fought twice, each winning a previous match. The winner here is the one who wins the best of the three.
Referee – The referee is the law in the ring. He makes sure that the fighters are playing by the rules, there are no illegal blows, to start the count when a boxer goes down, and to stop the fight if he believes a boxer cannot continue
Rest Period – A rest period is a break between each round.
Ring Doctor – Every boxing match has a doctor who examines the fighters to see if there is any major injury and stops the fight if he believes the boxer is at risk.
S
Sanctioning Body – An organization that lays the rules and sanctions boxing matches.
Saved by the Bell – When a fighter is knocked down by the bell rings signaling the end of the round.
Second – One of the cornermen is known as a second.
Seconds Out – Seconds out is said by the referee, informing the fighters that the rest period is over and the corner men should step outside the ring.
Shadow Boxing – When a boxer throws punches in the air as a way to warm up or practice his technique is called shadow boxing.
Shifting – Shifting means changing your fighting stance from orthodox to southpaw.
Shoulder Roll – A defensive move in which a boxer uses his shoulder to block a punch.
Slip – To avoid a strike by moving the head out of the way of an incoming attack.
Southpaw – Southpaw is a fighting style in which the boxer’s right hand and foot are in front.
Spar – Practicing for a match with another boxer in the gym is known as a spar.
Spit Bucket – A bucket in which a fighter spits excessive water during his rest period.
Stablemate – Stablemates refer to fighters who train together and fight for the same manager or promoter.
Stepping Stone – A boxer with a history of success but is not considered to be a formidable opponent.
Stick and Move – Constantly moving and punching in the ring is known as stick and move.
Stylist – A boxer whose primary strength is in skill and technique and doesn’t focus too much on power.
Sucker Punch – Throwing a punch after the bell.
Super Middleweight – The super middleweight class includes boxers whose weight is 168 pounds or less.
T
Technical Decision – Cuts, disqualifications, or any other situation where the fight is stopped early and the scores are even.
Technical Draw – An early stoppage of a match with even scores.
Technical Knockout – When the referee stops the fight if he believes a fighter is unable to continue.
Throw in the Towel – When the fighter’s corner throws in the towel, it is a signal to the referee to stop the fight.
Toe-to-Toe – When both boxers fight each other and neither one of them backs down.
Trial Horse – A boxer is a test fighter, used to prepare the other for an upcoming fight.
Tying-Up – Tying up is another word for a clinch with the addition of grabbing the opponent’s arm in the hug, so he can’t strike.
U
Unanimous Decision – When the judges decide and score the match in favor of a fighter.
Undercard – The fights before the main event
Underdog – A boxer who doesn’t have a high chance of winning is called an underdog.
Uppercut – A punch that comes swinging up from the bottom and connecting with the opponent’s chin or torso.
Upstart – A potential fighter at the beginning of his career.
V
Venue – The place where the boxing matches will occur.
W
Welterweight – The welterweight class includes boxers whose weight is 140 pounds or less.
White Collar Boxing – When business professionals participate in boxing on an amateur level it is known as white-collar boxing.
Wind – The boxer’s stamina is referred to as wind.
Content
- Can understanding boxing vocabulary accelerate progress?
- Conditions you need to know about boxing shots
- How to learn and understand boxing vocabulary?
The boxing terms you find here are used almost in all boxing styles.
Translations and explanations of each word or phrase simplifiedи condensed leave only the essentials.
Can understanding boxing vocabulary accelerate progress?
While boxing, the coach may accuse you of giving you advice, for example: “Overflows over the right side as he makes a straight forward arm…” .
OK ! But what does this mean?
To prevent a similar situation with you, here vocabulary word list in boxing are often used:
- Boxing sequence: Linking various punches that can disrupt, affect or unbalance your opponent.
- Parade: A boxing technique whose purpose is to deflect or block a shot.
- Attack: A match between two boxers, the goal of which is to hit the opponent as many times as possible. Power is forbidden there!
- Wrestling : Confrontation between two boxers, the purpose of which is to knock out or fight with the opponent. Respecting the touch zones allowed by the style that is practiced in boxing.
- Speaker design: Consists of using a variety of boxing techniques and movements to create opportunities that will give you an edge.
- Axis of attack of his opponent: The area where the opponent can punch or kick you (for those who are kickboxing). Leaving the axis of attack means either shifting towards the enemy, or retreating to be out of reach.
- Create your opponent: Control the movements of your opponent and control them to bring him into the ring to the place you need.
- Target : A sensitive or insensitive area of the body that needs one or more blows. (In a specific situation)
- shift = 1-tap movement to change position or leave the enemy’s axis of attack.
- Overflow = Movement in 2 clicks, the same logic as above.
- Pressing: Keep a very small distance between your opponent and you.
- Organization of attack / defense: Deliberate use of various boxing techniques to attack, counterattack, or defend against the opponent’s punches.
- Difference between knockout and horst fight: Hors-combat = The boxer is conscious, but too injured to continue fighting. KO = boxer who passes out after a powerful blow.
Conditions you need to know about boxing shots
The same boxing punch / move may have different names depending on your boxing style.
Let’s dwell on the main ones that will useful in your teaching and while reading your blog MotivaBoxe.
- Alive: Shot in a straight line from the front or back hand. Can be directed to body or face.
- Hook / Cross: Circular movement of the front / back hand. Can be directed to body or face.
- Not an uppercut: Bottom-up bar. Can be directed to body or face.
- Strike / Whip: A circular blow. Can be done with the front or back leg at face level (Blow blow), out of the body (Medium hit), and your opponent’s legs (Low blow).
- Un jab: Like the straight punch, the Jab is more of a boxing technique. It consists of several quick sends directly to the face of the opponent in order to interfere with him.
- Chased / Front Impact: A kick with the sole of a shoe that pushes the opponent away.
- Guard position: Very stable and comfortable on your supports, with protection that protects your face and body.
How to learn and understand boxing vocabulary?
You better understand the vocabulary of boxing you will progress faster… Perform an exercise without understanding the instructions, with a 99.9% chance that it will fail or fail.
To avoid this, feel free to ask for a translation of a word or paraphrase an explanation of the exercise to your trainer. The more you know what to do, the better your brain will be. find new solutions!
While you are looking at all this, I will continue to write new boxing tips this should interest you in: Boxing Techniques.
If you know other vocabulary words to add to this list, please use the comment area, I will add the most interesting 😉
“Knowledge is your greatest power! “
Kyle, your MotivaBoxe coach
2021-10-19
This page covers the vocabulary and language of boxing by looking at its background, equipment and people. Check your understanding with the vocabulary quiz and comprehension quiz.
Fighting with the fists seems to come naturally to human beings. Whether kids are playfully fighting for fun, or adults are fighting in anger, many will protect themselves by holding their fists in front of the face, and attack by punching with their fists. The same actions form the basis of boxing. For thousands of years, men and boys, and sometimes girls and women, have fought in boxing matches, sometimes with gloves and protective gear, and sometimes with bare fists and little or no protection. Boxing has always been a controversial sport, loved by some and hated by others. Its fans see it as the most exciting and challenging of sports, a true test of a person’s physical strength, mental alertness and courage. But those who dislike boxing see it as a brutal and dangerous activity, and some even believe it should be banned.
History
Carvings and paintings show people fighting with their fists over 5,000 years ago in ancient Sumeria and over 3,000 years ago in ancient Egypt. We don’t know if these fights were a regulated sport like boxing, or a form of violent entertainment like gladiator fighting in ancient Rome. But by the time of the ancient Greeks, boxing had become a sport and it was part of the Olympic Games as early as 688 B.C. It then became popular in other parts of Europe, but in 500 A.D. it was banned by the Roman Emperor Theodoric the Great. Theodoric was a Christian who believed that the human face was made in God’s image, and that by damaging the face, boxing also damaged God’s image.
Modern boxing had its origins in England during the early 18th century, when bare-knuckled prizefighting was popular. This was not a regulated sport, however, but an illegal business run by criminal gangs who earned money by selling tickets and taking bets. There were no written rules, no weight divisions, no rounds or time limits, no protective gear like gloves, and no referee. Many fighters were seriously hurt, and some were even killed.
Improvements began with the introduction of the London Prize Ring rules in 1743. Hitting a fighter while he was down was no longer allowed, and if a fighter went down and could not continue after a count of 30 seconds, the fight was over. In 1853, more rules were introduced, with biting, head-butting and hitting «below the belt» being banned and called fouls. Improvement continued with the introduction of the Marquess of Queensberry rules in 1867, which mark the real transformation of prize-fighting into the sport of boxing. Matches would be held in a 24-foot-square ring, with three-minute rounds and one-minute breaks between them. A fighter who was knocked down was given a ten-second count, and if he couldn’t get up in time, the referee would stop the fight. Thickly padded boxing gloves had to be worn to protect fighters from facial and hand injuries. The Queensbury rules still form the basis of boxing to this day.
Boxing’s image was greatly improved by its return to the Olympic Games in 1908, and by the establishment of boxing commissions to further regulate the sport. They developed a ratings system, oversaw regional and national competitions and world championship matches, and handled any disputes and protests.
How Boxing Works
Modern boxing has two main forms; amateur and professional. Amateur boxing can be seen at colleges and universities, at national and international tournaments, and at major sporting events such as the Olympic, Commonwealth and Asian Games. Protective headgear must be worn (see photo at right), the bouts are limited to three or four two-minute rounds, and results are decided on a strict points-scoring system. Professional boxing is far more popular than amateur boxing, which is often seen as a way of developing the skills needed for the professional form of the sport. Matches are usually much longer than amateur bouts, lasting for ten to twelve three-minute rounds, and protective headgear is not permitted. Fights are more often decided by knockout or technical knockout, meaning the referee decides a fighter cannot continue because of injuries such as cuts to the face, or because of exhaustion. But if a fight goes the full distance, the result is decided by a team of three judges who keep score during the fight by awarding points for legal punches. The referee can also instruct the judges to deduct points if a fighter commits a foul. If all the judges agree on which fighter is the winner, it is a unanimous decision, but if they disagree, the result is a split decision.
Boxing involves techniques for both attacking and defending. The only attacking move allowed in boxing is punching. Kicking, kneeing, elbowing, head-butting, holding and throwing are not allowed. There are four basic punches; the jab, the cross, the hook and the uppercut. The jab is a quick, straight punch thrown with the lead hand, which for a right-handed, orthodox fighter, is the left hand, and for a left-handed, southpaw fighter is the right hand. The jab is not a powerful punch, but it’s good for scoring points, for checking distance, and for starting a combination of punches. A cross is a powerful, straight punch thrown with the rear hand, which is the right hand for orthodox fighters and the left hand for southpaws. It can follow a jab to create the classic «one-two» combination. The hook is a semi-circular punch thrown with the lead hand to the side of the opponent’s head. A hook can also target the lower body and this punch is sometimes called a «rip». The uppercut is a rising punch thrown with the rear hand, aimed at the jaw or deep into the stomach area. The right uppercut followed by a left hook is a powerful and dangerous combination.
Just as important as the attacking techniques are the defensive techniques. These include the protective guard, as well as techniques to evade and block punches. There are several defensive positions, called guards, which boxers use. In a high guard both hands are raised to protect the face, while in a low guard the rear hand is held lower to add protection to the body. To evade punches and avoid being hit, boxers use a number of moves. One such move is slipping, in which a boxer turns his body slightly from the hips to let a punch «slip» past. Another is swaying, in which a boxer «sways» straight back from the hips in order to move his head back and out of way of an approaching punch. Boxers also bob and weave, meaning they evade a punch by bobbing, or bending the legs and lowering the head, and then move into an attacking position by weaving, or straightening up while stepping in towards the opponent. Other defensive techniques include parrying, blocking and clinching.
In order to win a fight, a boxer must use these techniques for attacking and defending within a good overall strategy. In the early rounds of a fight, boxers figure out what their opponent’s strong points and weak points are, and then try to find a winning strategy, taking into account their own strengths and weaknesses as well. As such, boxing is very much a «mental» contest as well as a physical one, and champion boxers need to be quick thinkers as well as quick punchers and movers.
Most Famous Boxer
Muhammad Ali
On January 17, 1942, Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. was born in Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.A. He grew up to become the most famous boxer of all time, though most people now know him as Muhammad Ali, the name he adopted in 1964 when he converted to Islam. Ali is a former three-time World Heavyweight Champion and winner of an Olympic gold medal. In 1999, he was crowned «Sportsman of the Century» by Sports Illustrated and the BBC. Ali had the perfect body for a boxer. He stood 6-ft 3-in tall (1.91 m) and had a strong physique, but he was as fast as a much smaller man. He used his foot-speed and quick body movement to avoid punches, and this allowed him to use a low guard instead of the high guard usually used to protect the face. This made Ali look very relaxed in the ring, and he would often seem to be «playing» with his opponent, in the way a cat might «play» with a mouse, before suddenly stepping up the pace and going «in for the kill». Later in his career, when he slowed down a little, Ali developed a new style he called «rope-a-dope». With this technique he would stay on the ropes with a high guard and cover up to absorb punches to his arms and body, or lean back on the ropes and sway to avoid the punches, until his opponent wore himself out. Then Ali would begin a strong attack which usually ended the fight with a knockout. Muhammad Ali retired from boxing in 1981, though his influence on the sport will continue forever. The beauty of his early style, which Ali himself described as «Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee», will never be forgotten by boxing’s many fans.
Boxing Vocabulary List
| word | example sentence | meaning |
|---|---|---|
| bare-knuckled | Bare-knuckled fighting was popular until the nineteenth century. | without protective gloves |
| block | He could block most of the punches, but some got through and hit his face. | use the hands, arms and shoulders to stop punches from landing on the face or body |
| blow | A blow to the stomach can make it difficult to breathe. | strike or hit; punch with a clenched fist |
| bout | Mike had his first bout in professional boxing when he was sixteen. | organized fight in boxing or wrestling |
| clinch | Both fighters were tired and clinching too much, so the referee told them to «break». | lean on and hold one’s opponent instead of fighting |
| combination | His best combination was a left jab followed by a right cross, and then a left hook. | series of punches thrown in sequence |
| counterpunch | After throwing a right hook, he left himself open and got hit by a strong counterpunch. | punch thrown after an opponent has thrown a punch |
| cross | An orthodox boxer usually throws a cross with his stronger right arm. | a straight power punch thrown directly at the target |
| fist | He raised his arms and held his fists in front of his face to protect himself. | tightly closed hand with the fingers bent in towards the palm |
| foul | The referee warned Mike after he threw another foul punch. | unfair act or un-sportsmanlike conduct |
| gloves / boxing gloves | Boxing gloves help to prevent damage to the hands, especially the knuckles. | protective padded coverings for the hands, usually made of leather |
| head-butt | The referee stopped the fight after a head-butt opened a cut over Ali’s left eye. | foul of hitting an opponent with the head |
| holding | After warning Joe for holding several times, the referee deducted points. | foul of preventing an opponent from punching by holding their arms against their body |
| hook | He finished the combination with a right hook to the jaw. | short sideways inside punch delivered with the elbow bent |
| jab | Fighters use the jab to earn points, but it’s not a powerful punch. | quick punch with the leading hand, straight from the chin to the target |
| kidney punch | Referees disqualify fighters who use kidney punches to hurt their opponent. | illegal blow to the lower back which can damage the kidneys |
| knockdown | A referee usually starts an eight count after a knockdown. | occurs when a boxer is hit and any part of his body, other than the feet, touches the floor |
| knockout / KO | He has won seventeen fights, thirteen of them by knockout. | occurs when a boxer is hit hard and loses consciousness |
| low blow | The referee stopped the fight to let Harada recover from a low blow. | foul blow to the area below the stomach, including the genitals |
| match | Our son won his first boxing match last night, and we’re very proud of him. | an organized contest between people or teams |
| neutral corner | He went to the neutral corner and waited for his opponent to get up off the floor. | corner of the ring a boxer must go to after knocking down an opponent |
| parry | He stood on the ropes with his gloves up, parrying the punches as they came. | fend off punches with the gloves |
| promoter | The fighters said the promoter didn’t pay them as much as he said he would. | company or person who finances and organizes a sporting or entertainment event |
| punch | People say he can’t take a good punch, and is easily knocked out. | strike with a clenched fist |
| rabbit punch | Dirty fighters try to hurt their opponents with illegal blows like rabbit punches. | illegal punch to the back of the head or neck which can damage the spinal cord |
| ring | The fighters climbed through the ropes and into the ring. | raised square platform on which boxing matches are held |
| ropes | Ali would stay on the ropes and wait for his opponent to wear himself out. | lengths of strong cord enclosing a boxing ring |
| rounds | In men’s boxing rounds last for three minutes, but in women’s boxing they last for two minutes. | time periods in a boxing match for fighting, separated by one-minute breaks |
| southpaw | Good boxers know how to deal with any opponent, including unorthodox fighters like southpaws. | left handed fighter who jabs with the right hand and throws power punches with the left hand |
| sparring | He was one of Ali’s regular sparring partners. | when boxers make the motions of boxing without landing heavy blows, as a kind of training |
| split decision | It was a close fight, and the winner won it on a split decision. | occurs when two of the three judges score one boxer as the winner, while the third judge scores the other boxer as the winner |
| standing eight count | The referee checked the fighter during the standing eight count, and then let him continue. | occurs when a boxer looks hurt and the referee stops the fight and counts to eight to see if he can continue |
| sucker punch | I was hurt by a sucker punch that got me in the stomach when I wasn’t looking. | unexpected punch that catches a boxer by surprise |
| technical knockout / TKO | Robert says he would have won the fight if it hadn’t been stopped on a technical knockout. | occurs when a fighter loses because a legal punch causes a cut, usually on his face, that stops the fight |
| unanimous decision | He won the fight easily and got a unanimous decision from the judges. | occurs when all three judges agree on who is the winner of a fight |
| upper cut | My best punch was an upper cut that hit him on the jaw and nearly knocked him out. | upward punch aimed at the jaw or the stomach |
| weight classes | Boxers sometimes move to a different weight class, often to a heavier one. | competition divisions based on weight, such as «heavyweight» |
| weigh-in | The boxers tried to upset each other with insults at the weigh-in before the fight. | pre-fight meeting for boxers to be weighed to make sure they are within their weight class limits |
Boxing Terms
by Scotty L of Predictem.com
Boxing has a colorful language all its own. The boxing lexicon is so replete with imagistic language that many of its words, lingo, jargon and expressions have become a part of regular English. The next time you wonder “What does (insert word here) in boxing mean?” You can find it here! Listed below, you’ll find some of the more common boxing terms you will hear if you watch and follow boxing.
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Accidental Butt: When the heads of both fighters just so happen to collide during the course of a fight. No one is ruled responsible in such a case.
Alphabet Groups: Term used to describe the numerous boxing organizations (WBA, IBF, WBC, WBO) that govern the sport.
Bleeder: A fighter who is vulnerable to cuts.
Bob and Weave: When a fighter moves his upper body in an up-and-down motion, making him more difficult to time correctly.
Bolo Punch: A showy, sweeping punch that looks like a little like an uppercut. More of a showboating tactic.
Bout: Another word for a boxing match.
Brawler: An aggressive fighter who likes to fight on the inside.
Break: The moment when the fighters are separating from a clinch.
Buckle: When fighters legs give way, as in that punched buckled him.
Canvas: The floor in a boxing ring.
Card: The list of fights happening in a single boxing event.
Caught Cold: Term used to describe a fighter knocked out early in the fight who was not mentally prepared or warmed up properly.
Chief Second: The head trainer in charge of a fighters corner.
Clinch: When fighters hold each other.
Combination: A seamless sequence of consecutive punches.
Contender: A fighter in a position to perhaps challenge for a championship.
Corkscrew Punch: A punch thrown in a twisting motion, which often causes cuts.
Cornerman: One of several people who work in a fighters corner during a fight.
Counterpunch: Punch thrown in response to another fighters attack.
Covering Up: Defensive tactic where a fighter goes into a shell to thwart his opponents offensive.
Cross: Power punch thrown straight with the rear hand.
Cutman: Cornerman responsible for tending to swelling and cuts.
Dive: When a fighter purposely loses.
Eight Count: After a fighter is knocked down, the referee must complete a count of eight even if the opponent rises before that.
Enswell: Piece of cold metal that is pressed on swelling to prevent the eyes from closing.
Faded: Term used to describe a fighter past his peak powers.
Feint: When a fighter acts like hes going to punch but does not in order to get his opponent to react.
Flash knockdown: When a fighter is briefly knocked down, more as a result of a surprise or happenstance than being seriously hurt.
Fringe Contender: Low-rated contender on the cusp of the world rankings.
Gate: Total amount of money generated from ticket sales.
Gatekeeper: Term used to describe a fighter who is not a threat to be champion, but opponents can establish themselves as a legitimate contender by beating him.
Get Off: A fighters ability to get his offense untracked.
Glass Jaw: A trait of a fighter with questionable punch-resistance.
Go the Distance: Lasting for the complete scheduled duration of a fight.
Go to the Body: A strategy that centers on trying to deplete an opponents resolve by repeatedly punching to the body and not so much the head.
Go to the Cards: When the judges decide who won a fight that either went the distance or was stopped prematurely.
Governing Body: An organization that sanctions fights.
Haymaker: A wild punch intended to knock out the opponent.
Infighting: Close-range boxing.
Journeyman: A skilled fighter, while not necessarily a winning one. Used as opponents and to test up and coming boxers. They lack meaningful connections and take fights on short notice.
Kidney Punch: Illegal body punch thrown to the rear area of an opponents body.
Liver Shot: Legal punch when a left hook connects with the lower right side of an opponents body with devastating affect.
Low Blow: Punch deemed by the referee to be below the legal level.
Main Event: The most important fight on a card.
Mauler: An inside fighter who tries to prevail by smothering his opponents.
Majority Decision: When two judges agree a certain fighter won, while the third judge scores it as a draw.
Mouse: An isolated and protruding swelling on a fighters face.
Neutral Corner: One of two unoccupied corners in the ring and where fighters are sent after they knock down their opponents.
No-Decision: When a fight has no win-lose-draw result, usually from an early-rounds cut or an extenuating circumstance that does not allow a fight to finish.
On the Ropes: Term used to describe a fighter in a dangerous situation trapped with his back against the ropes in a boxing ring.
Orthodox: Describes a right-handed fighter.
Outside Fighter: Boxer that prefers operating from long-range.
Palooka: Term used to describe an aging, losing, or uncelebrated boxer.
Parry: Changing the trajectory of an opponents punch using the gloves to slap away the shot.
Paw: To meekly poke a jab out.
Play Possum: To act hurt in an effort to get an opponent to over-commit.
Plodder: A slow-footed fighter with no agility.
Point Deduction: When a foul or series of fouls warrant a one-point penalty, the equivalent of losing a round.
Pound-for-Pound: Term created to rank fighters based on excellence and not weight.
Punchers Chance: When an under-skilled, but hard-hitting fighter must rely solely on his punching power to win a fight.
Purse: The money a fighter earns for a given fight.
Queer Street: State of a fighter who does not have full control of his faculties after taking punishment.
Rabbit Punch: An illegal punch to the back of the head.
Ring Generalship: When a fighter is controlling and dictating the fight. When one fighter is imposing his will on the fight more than his opponent.
Ringside: A position that is close to the ring.
Roll with the Punches: When an opponent bends and twists with the punch, minimizing its impact.
Rope-a-Dope: Allowing an opponent to go on the offensive while covering up on the ropes and waiting for him to tire.
Roughhousing: When an opponent fights in an overly physical and unruly way.
Rubber Match: When opponents fight for a third time, each having won one bout apiece.
Sanctioning Body: A group that organizes world title bouts.
Saved by the Bell: When a round ends, saving a hurt fighter that was on the verge of being knocked out.
Second: A cornerman.
Shopworn: A fighter who is slowing down after a long career.
Slip: To move the head slightly to avoid a punch.
Southpaw: A left-handed fighter.
Spar: Boxing for practice.
Split Draw: When two judges disagree on who won a fight, while the third judge has it a draw.
Stablemate: Fighters who train at the same gym or under the banner of the same promoter.
Stick and Move: Technique when a fighter moves around the ring fighting only at long range.
Stylist: A fighter who relies on skills rather than brawn.
Sucker Punch: A punch thrown at a distracted or otherwise unprepared opponent.
Titlist: Fighter who holds one of the many available world title belts, but is not recognized as the true or linear champion.
Technical Decision: When a bout is terminated prematurely due to a cut or some other circumstance sending the bout to the scorecards.
Technical Draw: When a bout is ended prematurely and the scoring is even.
Technical Knockout: When a fighter is taking too much punishment and the referee stops the bout without completing a ten-count.
Throw in the Towel: When the chief second in a fighters corner wants to stop the fight, he throws a towel into the ring.
Toe-to-Toe: When both fighters stand in front of each other and engage.
Trialhorse: Capable but largely unsuccessful opponent used to gauge if other fighters are ready to make a jump in class.
Undercard: Series of fights that take place before the main event.
Upstart: A new fighter with potential.
Walkout Bout: A low-caliber fight at the end of a fight card.
Whiskers: Chin. Used to describe a fighters durability, as in he has a good set of whiskers.
The sport of boxing has its own, unique language. It’s full of terminology that is so strong that much of it has become a part of every day lingo. Browse through our glossary of terms to see how many words and phrases you know and use.
Accidental Butt: It is ruled an accidental butt when two fighter’s heads collide and the referee determines that neither fighter intentionally head-butted the other. Typically both fighters are warned to be careful, but no fighter is penalized.
Alphabet Groups: This is a negative term used to describe the numerous sanctioning bodies of boxing; the WBC, WBA, WBO, etc.
Amateur Boxing: Competitive boxing matches where neither participant is paid and most fighters are beginning to learn their craft. Amateur Events Near You
Apron: The section of a boxing ring canvas, on the floor, that extends outside of the ring ropes.
Backpedal: To retreat or move backwards, away from an opponent, while still facing him, all in an attempt to avoid an attack.
Be First: When your coach tells you to «be first», he or she is wanting you to throw your punches before your opponent. In other terms, he/she wants you to be aggressive.
Bell: A type of gong used to signal the start and end of each round.
Below the Belt: A punch that strays low, below the waistband of a boxer’s trunks.
Bleeder: A boxer who gets cut easily.
Blow-by-Blow: A detailed description used by broadcasters to describe the action as it unfolds in the ring.
Bob and Weave: Side to side and rolling movements that are used as defense to avoid punches. Heavyweight Joe Frazier is a classic example of someone who used the “bob and weave” defense to perfection.
Body Work: An offensive method of attack that is targeted towards an opponent’s midsection with the intent of wearing him down or knocking the wind out of him/her.
Bolo Punch: Typically used to distract an opponent, it is a punch that is thrown in a circular motion and is a hook combined with an uppercut. “Bolo” means machete in the Filipino language. Macario Flores was the first fighter to have reportedly use the punch, but it became more popular and is more commonly associated with Kid Gavilan and Sugar Ray Leonard.
Bout: A word used to describe a boxing match.
Brawler: This is a type of fighter who likes to exchange punches and relies on being aggressive and fighting on the inside.
Break: This is a command used by a boxing referee to stop the action and separate the fighters.
Canvas: Although these days the ring flooring can also be vinyl, boxing rings were traditionally made from canvas and were called that. This is now a general term used to reference the floor of the boxing ring. Shop Boxing Rings
Card: This is the line-up of bouts or fights that are scheduled at any given boxing event.
Catch-Weight: A term used to describe a bout where neither fighter adheres to a traditional weight division, but instead have agreed to a predetermined weight at which they will compete.
Caught Cold: This is a term used to describe a boxer who gets hurt in the opening rounds or stopped early in the fight because he or she was not mentally or physically prepared or warmed-up.
Challenger: A boxer who is scheduled to face a champion or the favored fighter.
Champion: The fighter who holds the title.
Check Hook: A counterpunch designed to “catch” an aggressive fighter as he is moving forward on the attack. This punch is thrown like a traditional hook, but involves simultaneously stepping back and timing the opponent as he comes forward.
Chief Second: This is the coach or trainer who is in charge of the corner. Shop All Corner Supplies
Clinch: A term used to describe when two fighters grab onto or hold each other to prevent an exchange or to slow the action. One fighter may also use this tactic when he is hurt, to prevent absorbing additional punishment.
Combination: This is any series of punches thrown in succession, one right after the other, with no break in between.
Contender: This is a qualified opponent who has worked his way up the ranks in order to challenge for the world title.
Corkscrew Punch: This is a punch thrown in an overhand, arching motion that twists on impact and is intended to cause a cut.
Cornerman: A coach, cutman or person responsible for tending to a fighter between rounds. Shop All Corner Supplies
Counterpunch: This is any punch that is thrown in return or comes back as a response to an offensive move.
Cover-Up: This is a defensive move employed by a fighter to avoid getting hit. He or she simply hides beneath and behind their gloves to avoid direct contact from an offensive attack.
Cross: A power punch thrown with the rear hand and travels across the fighter’s body.
Cruiserweight: Professional boxing competition is divided into weight divisions in order to provide a more “level playing field.” Any boxer weighing 200lbs or less can compete in and is classified as a cruiserweight.
Cutman: The individual in the corner who is responsible for controlling any cuts, abrasions, or swelling that could negatively impact a fighter’s ability to perform or continue to fight. Shop All Corner Supplies
Cutting-off-the-Ring: This is a technique that involves limiting an opponent’s movement by stepping side to side, not allowing him to move freely around the ring.
Decision: This is the verdict rendered by the ringside judges who determine the winner of the bout. This typically occurs at the conclusion of the contest, but can also take place if a foul, accidental butt or type of injury takes place and the scorecards have to be referenced.
Disqualification: This occurs when one boxer commits too many fouls or flagrant rule violations and is subsequently deemed unfit to continue competing. He automatically loses the bout.
Dive: This is when one fighter purposely goes down for the count or pretends to be knocked out.
Down and Out: A common boxing phrase used for when one boxer is knocked down and fails to get up before the referee reaches the mandatory count of ten.
Draw: When all judges scores are tallied and the rounds are all scored close, exactly the same, or balance each other out, the bout is determined” even”, with no winner declared.
Duck: Dropping your weight down and under a punch to avoid being hit by it.
Eight Count: When one fighter is knocked down or in trouble of being stopped, a referee can administer a count of eight to give the fighter time to recover or so that he can better assess the situation.
Enswell: A tool used by the cut-man in a boxer’s corner to reduce swelling and stop bleeding. It is typically made of stainless steel that is cooled by placing on ice. It is then applied with slight pressure to the injured area to constrict the capillaries and slow blood flow, bruising or swelling. Shop All Enswells
Faded: Usually refers to a fighter who runs out of gas in the later rounds or who, overall in terms of his boxing career, is no longer performing at his best.
Feint: Faking or feinting a punch is used to make an opponent unnecessarily react, or to gauge his response so that it throws him off his game or makes him commit to a false move.
Fisticuffs: A term used in the early 1600’s, combining the word fist and cuff, or “blow.” It was commonly used in reference to two men engaging in hand-to-hand combat.
Flash Knockdown: This typically describes a quick knockdown or brief trip to the canvas where the fighter that goes down was only temporarily caught off-guard or rocked, but suffered no significant damage.
Foul: To break one of boxing’s rules, which can ultimately lead to point deductions if they are repeated.
Fringe Contender: This usually refers to a lesser-known or low-ranking fighter who is about to break into the higher rankings, but doesn’t typically pose much of a threat.
Gate: This is the amount of money generated on-site from the sale of tickets.
Gatekeeper: Term used to describe a fighter who is not a threat to be champion, but opponents can establish themselves as a legitimate contender by beating him.
Get Off: This refers to a fighter’s ability to “let his hands go” or throw uninhibited to mount an effective offensive attack.
Glass Jaw: A negative term used to describe a fighter who can’t take a punch, who gets knocked out easily or has a questionable chin.
Go the Distance: To fight to the final bell or the duration of an entire fight.
Go to the Body: An offensive strategy focused on attacking the mid-section or abdominal region, as opposed to concentrating on the head as a fighter’s target.
Go to the Cards: An occurrence where neither fighter is knocked out or stopped. The decision, as to who won the fight, is made by assigned judges who have scored each round as the bout has progressed.
Governing Body: The organization who dictates the rules of each bout and sanctions or approves fights.
Groin Protector: A type of protective gear that is typically made of fabric and foam and fits around a fighter’s waist to protect his hips, upper abdomen and groin area to guard against punches that accidentally land “below the belt.” Shop Groin Protectors
Hand Wraps: In order to protect their fists in training and sparring, fighters wrap their hands in tape, gauze or cotton bandages that have specifically been designed for boxing. Shop Hand Wraps
Haymaker: A desperation punch thrown with full force and with the intent to knock an opponent out.
Head Butt: When two fighter’s heads collide or come together. This occasionally happens by accident or is sometimes employed as a blatant foul.
Head Hunting: A term used to describe a boxer who focuses most of his attention on striking his opponent in the face and head, thereby, ignoring body punching.
Heavyweight: Professional boxing competition is divided into weight divisions in order to provide a more “level playing field.” Any boxer weighing over 200lbs is classified as heavyweight.
Hook: This punch is thrown with the lead or front hand and is delivered in a semi-circular pattern. The hook is executed by leading with your front hand, bringing your elbow up and rotating the front side of your body (in a similar motion as slamming a door). It is meant to reach beyond your opponent’s guard and make contact with the side of his head or chin.
Infighting: This is also called “inside fighting” or exchanging punches at close-range. Improve Close-Range Punching
Jab: The jab is a punch that is thrown with your front hand and delivered straight at your opponent. It should be the centerpiece of any boxing offense.
Journeyman: This is a term that means a fighter who is always “in the game,” but not typically in title contention. A journeyman is used by up-and-coming fighters to test their skills and, in many cases, gain a recognizable win over a “name” on their record. Journeymen are constantly on their own journey (never arriving) and part of a future champion’s journey to notoriety.
Kidney Punch: This is an illegal blow thrown at an opponent’s lower back, usually while in a clinch or as a counterpunch.
Knockdown: When an opponent is struck and falls to the ring floor or when his glove or knee touches the canvas after being hit.
Knockout/KO: If a fighter is rendered unconscious, cannot stand after being knocked-down, or is unable to continue for any reason under their physical control by the count of ten, he or she would be considered knocked-out and loses the contest.
Lead Right: A lead right is delivered in place of a lead jab, but is harder to execute because it has to travel across the distance of a fighters body to land, so it has to be thrown quickly and catch an opponent off-guard.
Light Flyweight: Professional boxing competition is divided into weight divisions in order to provide a more “level playing field.” Any boxer weighing 108lbs or less can compete in and is classified as a light flyweight.
Light Heavyweight: Professional boxing competition is divided into weight divisions in order to provide a more “level playing field.” Any boxer weighing 175lbs or less can compete in and is classified as a light heavyweight.
Light Middleweight: Professional boxing competition is divided into weight divisions in order to provide a more “level playing field.” Any boxer weighing 154lbs or less can compete in and is classified as a light middleweight.
Light Welterweight: Professional boxing competition is divided into weight divisions in order to provide a more “level playing field.” Any boxer weighing 140lbs or less can compete in and is classified as a light welterweight.
Lineal Champion: This is when a fighter wins the title from the fighter who won the title and it has been passed down through a direct line of champions. It is, in essence, “the man who beat the man.”
Low Blow: This is any punch that is thrown or strays below the waistband of a boxer’s trunks. It can also be an imaginary line at the base of the midsection where the referee deemed illegal.
Main Event: The most recognizable or main fight on a card.
Mauler: Most often this is used to describe a fighter who likes to fight wildly on the inside and use roughhouse tactics to nullify their opponent’s effectiveness.
Majority Decision: (awarded by the majority of the judges) When two of the three judges score it for one fighter, while the third judge scores it a draw.
Majority Draw: When two of the three judges score the fight as a draw, while the third judge scores it for one of the fighters.
Middleweight: Professional boxing competition is divided into weight divisions in order to provide a more “level playing field.” Any boxer weighing 160lbs or less can compete in and is classified as a middleweight.
Minimumweight: Professional boxing competition is divided into weight divisions in order to provide a more “level playing field.” Any boxer weighing 105lbs or less can compete in and is classified as a minimum weight.
Mouse: A bump or isolated area of swelling on a fighter’s face.
Mouth Guard: A piece of protective equipment that is constructed of a dense rubber material, molded to a fighter’s mouth to protect his teeth, gums and jaw from injury. Shop Mouth Guards
Neutral Corner: Each of the two fighters are assigned a red or blue corner. Two white corners of the ring are remaining and are considered “neutral territory.” Neither fighter’s cornermen are stationed there so it’s where a fighter is sent if he knocks his or her opponent down. They remain there while a count is administered by the referee.
No-Decision: When it has been pre-determined by both fighters that a particular fight will not go on their records, for a variety of reasons, or when a fight is prematurely ended due to an unintentional head butt or cut, it can be ruled a no-contest or no decision.
On the Ropes: Whether purposely, as a defensive technique, or he is forced to fight from this position by a more aggressive opponent, a fighter who lays against the ring ropes is considered “on the ropes.”
Orthodox: A right-handed fighter or one who leads with a left jab and uses his back, or right hand, as his cross.
Outpoint: This is when one boxer outscores his opponent by landing more blows each round.
Outside Fighter: Boxers who prefer to fight from the outside, typically behind a long jab, from long-range are considered outside fighters.
Overhand: A punch that is delivered in an arching motion, traveling downward on the opponent.
Palooka: This is an old boxing term used to describe a fighter who is uneducated, who is lacking in ability and/or who is generally clumsy.
Parry: This is when you not only block an incoming punch, but actually re-direct it away from your body or the intended target.
Paw: When you don’t fully commit to a punch and throw it without any real intent to land, but more like you are testing the waters, this is referred to as “pawing.”
Peek-A-Boo: This style of fighting was attributed to legendary trainer Cus D’Amato and involved placing your hands high in front of your face, providing a lot of angles to confuse your opponent and moving your upper torso rapidly from side to side. Mike Tyson was famous for employing this type of style. Try our Cus D’Amato Slipping Bag
Picking-off Punches: A term used when punches are blocked or redirected before they land.
Play Possum: This is when a fighter acts like he is hurt or tired in an attempt to lure his opponent in and carelessly leave himself open, while attempting to take advantage of the “vulnerable” fighter.
Plodder: A heavy-footed, slow fighter who consistently moves forward is considered “a plodder.”
Point Deduction: A point is taken away from a fighter when a blatant foul or rule infraction occurs. It can also happen after several warnings have been issued, such as in a case of unintentional, but repeated low blows.
Pound-for-Pound: This term is used to describe a fighter’s skill level regardless of weight category. It originated with and is commonly used to describe Sugar Ray Robinson, whose skill and overall ring generalship would translate into and transcend any weight division.
Prizefighter: This is a traditional term used to describe any combatant who competes against another for “prize money” or an award. Shop Belts & Awards
Promoter: Used in many forms of entertainment, but in relation to boxing, the term refers to an individual or entity that arranges boxing matches. This typically includes paying everyone involved, obtaining the necessary licensing, advertising the event, ticket sales, securing a venue to stage the matches, assuming all financial risk and nearly every facet of organizing the contest(s).
Pugilist: An outdated word that originated from the Latin word “pugil” which means a fist-fighter or boxer.
Pull: A defensive move where a fighter leans away from or pulls back from to avoid being hit.
Pull Counter: This is a type of defensive-counterpunch combination used against a fighter who takes the lead and throws a jab first. It requires a fighter to anticipiate when his opponent is going to throw the punch, to pull away just far enough for him to miss, but stay close enough in range to land a counter-cross in return.
Pull Your Punches: When a punch is not delivered at full force, but held back. Fighters sparring each other may pull their punches to keep the intensity light. Some fighters may do it in a competitive match to trick their opponent into a feeling of safety before they surprise them by throwing with full power.
Puncher’s Chance: A term used to describe the type of fighter, who although may be outclassed, still possesses the kind of knock out power to end a fight with one punch. He could clearly not outbox his opponent, but would always have a chance to win based on his power.
Punch Mitts: A pair of foam pads that a boxing trainer wears on his hands to provide moving targets for his boxer. These pads are used to mimic an opponent’s movement, to practice specific punches and combinations and develop specific boxing skills. Shop Punch Mitts
Purse: The amount of money a boxer earns or is being paid to fight.
Rabbit Punch: This is any punch that is delivered to the back of another fighter’s head. It is an illegal blow, due to being highly dangerous. It is called that because of its similarity to the way that hunters used to kill rabbits.
Ring Generalship: This is the manner in which a fighter controls the action in the ring and understands his position. It is the way he is able to impose his will on his opponent and strategically outmaneuver him.
Ring/Round Card Girls: Combat sports regularly feature women who carry a numbered sign or “card” in the ring during the rest period. This informs or reminds the audience which round is coming up next. Shop Round Cards
Ringside: A position in the front row or right next to the boxing ring is considered “ringside.”
Roadwork: This term applies to running, jogging or sprinting that fighters do in cardiovascular preparation for a boxing match.
Roll with the Punches: The ability to move with a punch to reduce its impact or turn in that same direction so that it doesn’t land cleanly.
Rope-a-Dope: When you maintain a defensive posture on the ropes in an attempt to outlast or tire your opponent. It is most recognized and was actually given that name by Muhammad Ali when he employed the technique to defeat George Foreman.
Roughhousing: When an opponent uses “questionable” offensive tactics, is highly physical and aggressive, it is considered to be “roughhouse tactics.”
Rubber Match: When two fighters have fought twice, each having won one of the previous matches, this one deciding who will win best of three, it is called a rubber match.
Sanctioning Body: An organization that regulates and approves fights. Sanctioning bodies dictate the rules and guidelines that any bout is fought under.
Saved by the Bell: If a fighter is knocked down and seemingly cannot get up by the time the round ends, he is considered to have been “saved by the bell.” Shop Ring Gongs
Second: One of a fighter’s cornermen.
Seconds Out: A verbal command issued by the referee that the one minute rest between rounds has ended, signaling that the fighter’s trainers, coaches and cut men must leave the corner and return ringside for the start of the next round.
Shadow Boxing: A type of training or warm-up exercise used to describe when a fighter observes his shadow or his reflection in a mirror, against an imaginary opponent, in order to review his technique.
Shifting: An offensive technique where you change your lead foot, shifting your weight to gain more power. You are basically changing from orthodox to southpaw as you deliver a punch.
Shoe Shine: A series of flashy punches in quick succession that look impressive but do little damage.
Shopworn: This refers to a fighter who has taken too much punishment or suffered too much wear and tear on his body over the course of his career.
Shoulder Roll: This is a defensive move where a fighter leaves his front arm low and drapes it across his midsection so that when his opponent throws a punch he can use his shoulder to block or roll with it. This is so the defensive fighter is able to counter back with either hand because neither was used for blocking. For a right-handed fighter, it also automatically shifts his weight to his back foot and sets him up for a hard counter right cross. Although Floyd Mayweather has become known for this, many great fighters like Jersey Joe Walcott were masters of this defensive technique.
Slip: When you move your head to avoid getting hit.
Southpaw: Slang for a left-handed fighter or someone who is left hand dominant.
Spar: This is used for training and preparation in the gym. It should be much less intense than an actual fight, incorporating greater padded gloves and headgear. Shop Sparring Gloves
Sparring Partner: This is a term used to describe another boxer that a fighter trains with and practices against, in order to prepare for a “real” bout.
Spit Bucket: The bucket or container a corner uses to carry their supplies, but is primarily used between rounds for the fighter to spit excess water into so that he doesn’t swallow too much during the course of a bout.
Split Decision: (split between the two fighters) When two of the three judges score the bout for one fighter and one judge scores it for the other.
Split Decision Draw: When one judge scores the bout for one fighter, the next judge scores it for the other and the third judge scores it a draw.
Stablemate: When two fighters train in the same gym and fight for the same manager or promoter, they are oftentimes called stablemates.
Stepping Stone: A negative term that describes any fighter being used to improve another boxer’s position or standing in boxing. This typically refers to an athlete who has name recognition or has had some level of success, but is no longer “a threat” to win.
Stick and Move: This is an offensive style of fighting that incorporates a great deal of movement, punching and moving constantly.
Stylist: A fighter who uses skill and technique more than power is considered “a stylist.”
Sucker Punch: A punch thrown at an unsuspecting victim or after the bell has sounded.
Super Middleweight: Professional boxing competition is divided into weight divisions in order to provide a more “level playing field.” Any boxer weighing 168lbs or less can compete in and is classified as a super middleweight.
Technical Decision: When a fight is stopped early due to a cut, disqualification, or any situation when the bout is stopped and the scorecards are tallied.
Technical Draw: When a bout is stopped early and the scores are even.
Technical Knockout: A technical knockout, or TKO, is the ending of a fight, determined by the referee, before it has gone the predetermined distance on the grounds of one contestant’s inability to continue, the opponent being declared the winner.
Throw in the Towel: When a fighter’s corner tosses a towel into the ring in order to stop the fight. It is usually due to their fighter taking too much punishment and is symbolic of surrendering.
Toe-to-Toe: When two fighters don’t back down, stand directly in front of each other and exchange punches.
Trial Horse: This refers to a fighter who is used as a test for an up-and-coming fighter to gauge his ability or readiness to step-up in class. A “trial horse” is usually a tough, durable fighter who will fight back, but poses no real threat to win.
Tying-Up: A type of defensive technique used when a fighter clinches or locks his opponent’s arms against his body so that they cannot throw punches in return.
Unanimous Decision: When all three judges agree and score the bout for one fighter.
Undercard: These are the fights that lead up to the main event.
Underdog: This is a label given to a competitor or athlete who is believed to have little or no chance of winning a fight.
Uppercut: A punch thrown in an upward fashion, up the middle of a fighter’s guard, intended to make impact on the point of his chin. It is delivered from a crouched position, with your hands up and, as you twist your upper torso, you extend your hand out and up slightly to make contact. This can be thrown with either hand.
Upstart: A beginning fighter who shows potential.
Walkout Bout: Oftentimes, these are fights scheduled as “filler” and when the main bouts end early, they are tacked on at the end of the card to make the fight card last longer.
Weight Class: Boxers are categorized and compete in specific weight divisions. These are weight classifications or “class” for short.
Welterweight: Professional boxing competition is divided into weight divisions in order to provide a more “level playing field.” Any boxer weighing 140lbs or less can compete in and is classified as a welterweight.
White Collar Boxing: When business professionals, or men and women who have white collar professions, train and box on an amateur level. Most have had little or no previous boxing experience.
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I made this tool after working on Related Words which is a very similar tool, except it uses a bunch of algorithms and multiple databases to find similar words to a search query. That project is closer to a thesaurus in the sense that it returns synonyms for a word (or short phrase) query, but it also returns many broadly related words that aren’t included in thesauri. So this project, Reverse Dictionary, is meant to go hand-in-hand with Related Words to act as a word-finding and brainstorming toolset. For those interested, I also developed Describing Words which helps you find adjectives and interesting descriptors for things (e.g. waves, sunsets, trees, etc.).
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Synonyms for Boxing match. (2016). Retrieved 2023, April 14, from https://thesaurus.plus/synonyms/boxing_match
Synonyms for Boxing match. N.p., 2016. Web. 14 Apr. 2023. <https://thesaurus.plus/synonyms/boxing_match>.
Synonyms for Boxing match. 2016. Accessed April 14, 2023. https://thesaurus.plus/synonyms/boxing_match.