Clinching againts a fast/heavy puncher

[ElbowTKO]

What ways are there to use the clinch as a offensive tool and deploy knees and possibly elbows (although I don't spar with them) against a fast/heavy puncher. I although there are many ways to parry and move in to clinch I have been told to never force your way in.

I find clinching to be difficult to do when the person fighting snaps his fist back to his side so quickly (even though that’s how everyone punches, the person I was sparing was exceptionally fast)

Does the Muay thai clinch just happen when you get close from punching? Or is it at times a planned manuever to attack with knees and defend againts erratic uncorrdinated punches?

[elbows_and_knees]

it can be a planned attack, but you have to use it wisely. The problem with forcing it is that your opponent knows it's coming and he will pummel you to keep you away. You have to use it the same way you use your cross and your rear leg round house - you have to set it up. Work your way in close with punches, then fake a wide hook - you have no intention of landing the hook - you want to wrap that hand around the crown of his head and let that be your entry to the clinch. There are several things you can try, you just have to play with it.