Introduction to the Uppercut Elbow

The uppercut elbow, also called the suksui, is the third fundamental elbow technique in Muay Thai. Like other elbow strikes, it maintains consistent body mechanics involving torso rotation and pivot movements, with the primary variation being the upward angle of elbow projection.

Basic Mechanics and Movement Pattern

The uppercut elbow is executed by raising the elbow upward while imagining the hand brushing the hair on the side of the head. The striker steps in, raises the elbow, and returns to stance, with power generated through back foot propulsion and momentum passing through the hairline.

Primary Target Areas

The primary target is underneath the opponent's chin. Secondary targets include the eyebrow, eyeball, nose, and cheek. These target variations allow the technique to generate cuts and facial trauma depending on the opponent's head position and defensive posture.

Counter to Overhand Strikes

The uppercut elbow can be used defensively to counter an opponent's overhand right. The defender catches or deflects the incoming strike and immediately counters with an upward elbow strike to the face or chin.

Clinch Entry Interception

When an opponent attempts to clinch by grabbing the shoulders or neck, the uppercut elbow can intercept the clinch entry. The defender uses the uppercut elbow to disrupt the opponent's entry while stepping in at a wide angle.

Application from Inside the Clinch

From within the plumb clinch position, a trapped striker can create space by swimming the lead hand inside, then execute an uppercut elbow strike to the center of the opponent's face or cheek. This technique requires controlled elbow positioning and proper hand placement to generate the necessary space.

Rope Work Counter

When backed against the ropes while an opponent applies body shots and uppercuts at close range, the rear uppercut elbow serves as an effective counter. Unlike boxing gloves, the exposed elbow bone creates a more powerful striking surface against an opponent's unprotected areas.

Muay Thai Elbows Ep. 3 | The Uppercut Elbow

Danny Fung

Uppercut Elbow

2 min read·7 key moments·PT6M49S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to the Uppercut Elbow
•Basic Mechanics and Movement Pattern
•Primary Target Areas
•Counter to Overhand Strikes

#muaythai #muaythaielbows #uppercutelbow In this third installment of our Muay Thai Elbows Series, we take an in-depth look at the Uppercut Elbow technique of Thai Boxing, which can be effectively used in several different scenarios. EXPERIENCE MMA & FITNESS 388 St-Louis, Gatineau, Qc 819.643.8444 www.experiencemma.com MUAY THAI || JIU-JITSU || BOXING || FITNESS KIDS & ADULTS Fully accredited Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school affiliated with the World Muay Thai Council and Alliance BJJ, respectively.

Related Techniques

Fundamental Elbow Strike Mae Mai Muay Thai Downward Elbow Elbow Strike Horizontal Elbow

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about uppercut elbow?

This video covers introduction to the uppercut elbow, basic mechanics and movement pattern, primary target areas. It provides detailed instruction from Danny Fung.

How long does it take to learn uppercut elbow?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.