Every boxing trainer has a different numbering system for punches, but the standard system used at most Australian gyms and internationally is: 1 = jab, 2 = cross, 3 = left hook, 4 = right hook, 5 = left uppercut, 6 = right uppercut. This guide covers the 10 combinations that form the foundation of offensive boxing — from the simplest two-punch combo to more complex sequences.
The Standard Punch Numbering System
- 1 — Jab (lead hand straight)
- 2 — Cross (rear hand straight)
- 3 — Left hook (lead hand hook)
- 4 — Right hook (rear hand hook)
- 5 — Left uppercut
- 6 — Right uppercut
The 10 Essential Combinations
1. 1-2 (Jab-Cross)
The most fundamental combination in boxing. The jab creates the opening; the cross delivers power. Learn this first. Everything else builds on it.
2. 1-1-2 (Double Jab-Cross)
Two jabs to disrupt the opponent's timing, then the cross when they've stopped adjusting to the first jab. Effective against opponents who parry the single jab.
3. 1-2-3 (Jab-Cross-Left Hook)
The most versatile three-punch combination. The hook comes off the back of the cross when the opponent reacts to the first two punches. High percentage finishing combination.
4. 1-2-3-2 (Jab-Cross-Hook-Cross)
Four punches — adding a cross at the end of the three-piece. The final cross catches opponents who come back after the hook. Signature combination of many elite fighters.
5. 2-3-2 (Cross-Hook-Cross)
Starts with the power punch. Used against aggressive opponents who walk into the cross. The hook follows as they try to cover, and the second cross comes as they drop their left guard to block the hook.
6. 1-6-3 (Jab-Right Uppercut-Left Hook)
The jab draws the opponent in; the right uppercut comes up through their guard as they lean forward; the left hook catches their turned head. A classic inside fighting combination.
7. 3-2 (Hook-Cross)
Opening with the hook surprises opponents who expect the jab. The cross follows immediately. Good against opponents with a high guard who close off the straight punch line.
8. 1-2-5-2 (Jab-Cross-Uppercut-Cross)
The uppercut targets the body. Mixing head and body attacks forces the opponent to split defensive focus — opening them up to the final cross.
9. Body-Head: 1(body)-2(head)
Jab to the body (solar plexus), cross to the head. Body punches draw the guard down; head punches land when the defence is compromised. The single most effective variation pattern in boxing.
10. 2-3-2-3 (Cross-Hook-Cross-Hook)
A four-punch exchange starting with the cross. Good for fighters with powerful rear hands — uses the cross to set up repeated hooks. Wears opponents down against the ropes.
Drilling Combinations
Each combination should be drilled in isolation — shadow boxing first (get the mechanics right), then on pads (add timing and feedback), then on the bag (add resistance and fatigue), then in light sparring (add live opposition). Don't rush to sparring before the shadow and pad work is automatic.
Train Combinations at Killa Boxing
Every class at Killa Boxing Marrickville includes pad work and combination drilling for all levels. More boxing technique guides → | Shop boxing equipment →