Rear Catch
Defence · Rear side (Orthodox right, Southpaw left)
Catch an incoming kick under the rear arm to control and counter.
How to throw it
Drop the rear elbow and forearm to scoop the incoming kick and pin it against your rear side, squeezing the leg tight under the arm to kill its momentum. Keep the lead hand guarding your head and your feet planted wide to absorb the impact. With the leg controlled, drive forward to counter or dump the opponent before they get the foot back down.
When to use it
Use the rear catch on kicks arriving to your rear or open side, turning their attack into your control. It sets up a heavy counter or a sweep, since the opponent is balanced on one leg and cannot defend while you hold the other.
Common mistakes
- Reaching out for the kick instead of letting it come in and clamping it to your body, which lets it slip away.
- Loosening the squeeze too soon, allowing the leg to pull free before you attack.
- Dropping the lead hand as you catch, leaving your head open to a punch on the other side.