a puncher versus a grappler...for you UFC/Pride and mma guys

[McNerny]

Hey,

Some street fights also begin in clinches where one of the people is grabbing or trying to choke the other. Chances are the punch from such close range would not have knockout power. Plus, many grapplers can use the clinch to set up takedowns and throws. From the clinch, the grappler against an untrained brawler would have the obvious advantage.

McNerny

[AndrewGreen]

Punching from in tight can have a lot of power, if you have control and good technique. Ever been hit with a shovel punch? Takes the wind out of you quite nicely from real tight.

Of course you need to be in a good position to throw anything in the clinch, if the guy has your head down you can go all out and wind yourself before him.

[DBK]

It's also worth noting that there are a lot more weapons available at close range than just the punch. A heel palm needs hardly any space to be extremely effective.

[McNerny]

Good points.

McNerny

[ElbowTKO]

helllllloooo......

What better way to fight with striking in the clich then with the MUAY THAI CLINCH USING ELBOWS and KNEES!!

[AndrewGreen]

Looking to MMA the Muay Thai clinch needs modified. Takedowns become a threat and the gloves are smaller. You are also allowed to stay in the clinch for longer. Underhooks / overhooks are a big part of MMA clinch work, but you don't see them in Muay Thai.

It might be a good place to start, but it is definately not the same set of skills.