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Mastering the Oblique Kick: Jon Jones and the Debate Over Its Legality
- Austin Jones
- Sep 28, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 2
Jon Jones Kickin’ it
In the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), fighters are constantly seeking innovative techniques to gain an edge over their opponents.
One such technique that has garnered both praise and controversy is the oblique kick.
At Fight.tv, we’re diving deep into the world of the oblique kick, exploring how Jon Jones has mastered it, why it’s considered brutal, and why there’s an ongoing debate over its legality in regulated competition.
Another notable fighter who has effectively used the oblique kick in MMA is Anderson Silva.
What is an Oblique Kick?
In the realm of martial arts, the oblique kick stands out as a versatile and powerful technique. This low kick targets the outside or inside of an opponent’s knee, aiming to disrupt their movement and balance.
Known in some circles as the “chasse” kick or “blade kick,” the oblique kick is a staple in various martial arts disciplines, including mixed martial arts (MMA), Muay Thai, and Wing Chun.
Its primary function is to control distance, keeping opponents at bay while maintaining a safe range. By targeting the knee, the oblique kick can effectively destabilize an opponent, making it a valuable tool in any fighter’s arsenal.
The Oblique Kick: A Closer Look
The oblique kick, also known as the "leg kick" or "side kick," is a striking technique primarily targeting the opponent's lead leg.
Usually the lower thigh at an angle that pressures the knee joint. Fundamentally, it is a push kick aimed just above the opponent's knee.
Unlike traditional kicks that aim for the head or body, the oblique kick is unique in its focus on the thigh right above the knee.
Its primary goal is to disrupt an opponent's movement and balance, making it an effective tool for controlling the pace of a fight. If executed hard enough it can take your opponent's leg out entirely and get you a TKO.
Jon Jones: The Master of the Oblique Kick
When it comes to mastering the oblique kick, one name stands out prominently – Jon “Bones” Jones.
Jones, the former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion and current UFC Heavyweight Champion whose widely regarded as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time; has incorporated the oblique kick into his arsenal with remarkable precision.
Interestingly, the oblique kick is not exclusive to MMA; it is also used in martial arts such as Savate and Muay Thai.
The oblique kick, delivered diagonally to target the knee, contrasts with the stomp kick, which involves a vertical downward drive, both techniques having significant potential for damage in professional fighting.
Why Jon Jones Uses the Oblique Kick
Range Control: Jones uses the oblique kick to manage the distance between him and his opponent.
By targeting the lead leg, he keeps his adversaries at bay and limits their ability to close the gap, giving him a significant advantage in striking exchanges.
The oblique kick excels at maintaining distance between the fighter and the opponent.
Injury Potential: When executed correctly, the oblique kick can cause significant damage to an opponent's knee joint or thigh.
This damage can accumulate over time, potentially compromising an opponent's mobility and overall effectiveness in the fight.
Tactical Strategy: Jones often uses the oblique kick as part of his tactical approach.
By constantly targeting the lead leg, he forces his opponents to adapt, which can disrupt their game plan and lead to openings for his other strikes.
Coaching tips for the oblique kick include targeting the quad with the heel of the foot.
The Brutality of the Oblique Kick
While the oblique kick is undoubtedly effective, its perceived brutality has sparked debate within the MMA community.
Critics argue that it poses a significant risk of injury to an opponent's knee ligaments, potentially leading to long-term damage and shortened careers.
The continued use of oblique kicks in professional mixed martial arts has been controversial for years, with opinions divided on whether its strategic benefits outweigh the risks.
Knee Joint Ligament Vulnerability
The knee joint is particularly vulnerable to oblique kicks. The forceful impact on the lateral side of the knee can hyperextend the joint, potentially causing ACL or MCL injuries.
Such injuries can require extensive rehabilitation and surgery, impacting a fighter's career and overall quality of life.
The Debate Over Legality in Mixed Martial Arts
The legality of the oblique kick in regulated competition remains a contentious issue. Some organizations like the UFC, permit the technique.
While others have banned it. The debate centers on whether the move's potential for severe injury outweighs its strategic value.
Arguments for Legality
Tactical Skill: Proponents argue that the oblique kick is a legitimate skill that fighters should be allowed to employ strategically.
It adds depth to the sport and forces fighters to develop defensive techniques.
Injury Responsibility: Advocates believe that fighters have a responsibility to protect themselves during a match.
If they fail to defend against oblique kicks, they should bear some responsibility for any resulting injuries.
Arguments Against Legality for Fighter Safety
Safety Concerns: Opponents argue that the oblique kick poses an unnecessary risk of serious injury to fighters, which contradicts the duty of organizations to prioritize fighter safety.
Integrity of the Sport: Some critics believe that allowing oblique kicks could tarnish the reputation of MMA as a sport that values skill and technique over inflicting harm.
Training and Technique
Mastering the oblique kick requires diligent practice and attention to detail.
The technique involves lifting the knee like a giant claw, keeping it slightly bent, and then kicking across the body to target the opponent’s knee.
This kick can be executed using either the front leg, often resembling a side kick, or the back leg.
The key is to angle the kick in a way that off-balances and destabilizes the opponent.
Stepping slightly to the side can enhance the effectiveness of the kick, making it harder for the opponent to anticipate and counter.
Training for the oblique kick should focus on the proper chamber position, extension, and retraction of the kick.
Practitioners should vary the intensity and speed of their kicks to build muscle memory and improve overall performance. Working with a partner or pad holder is crucial for developing timing and accuracy, ensuring that the kick lands precisely where intended.
Self Defense Applications
In self-defense scenarios, the oblique kick proves to be an invaluable technique, especially against larger or more aggressive opponents.
By targeting the knee, the kick can create distance and disrupt the opponent’s movement, making it difficult for them to close the gap and launch an attack.
The potential to cause a serious injury, such as incapacitating the opponent, adds to its effectiveness in self-defense.
However, the oblique kick should not be used in isolation. It is most effective when combined with other techniques, such as punches, elbows, and knee strikes.
Practitioners should also focus on developing their footwork and movement skills to create angles and opportunities to land the kick. This holistic approach ensures that the oblique kick is part of a well-rounded self-defense strategy.
Conclusion:
The oblique kick mastered by Jon Jones, has become a point of contention in the world of MMA.
While it is undeniably effective in controlling range and inflicting damage, its potential for severe injury raises questions about its place in regulated competition.
As the debate over its legality continues, fighters and organizations must weigh the strategic advantages against the safety concerns associated with this controversial technique.
At Fight.tv, we will continue to cover the latest developments in MMA and provide you with insights into the techniques and tactics that shape the sport. Stay tuned for more exciting content from the world of combat sports.