See the borderline techniques that are legal in MMA!

This article in a nutshell:

• This article highlights five lesser-utilized but still legal MMA techniques that can significantly impact a fight when executed effectively. These include the axe kick, cage grab, shoulder strikes, foot stomps, and the controversial oblique kick, each offering unique advantages in certain scenarios. Videos demonstrate how these techniques have been used by notable fighters like Jon Jones and Kamaru Usman to gain a strategic edge.

• We've included some sample videos which demonstrate how these techniques have been used by notable fighters like Jon Jones and Kamaru Usman to gain a strategic edge.

With the development of MMA over the years, the applicable rules have also become more sophisticated. Certain techniques, while pherhaps appearing minor or situational, can potentially turn the tide of a fight when used effectively. Below are techniques that are, perhaps surprisingly, still legal in MMA as of 2024.

5. Axe Kick

We start with the axe kick — a technique where the fighter brings their leg up high and thrusts it down in a chopping motion, aiming to strike their opponent with their heel. While the majority of fighters don't have the flexibility required to properly execute the technique, for those who can, the kick can cause serious damage to the opponent's head or shoulder area - sometimes even leading to knockouts.

Youtube embedded (October 2024)

4. Cage Crab

While grabbing the cage is generally not legal in MMA, there are certain situations where a fighter can still legally press their hands or feet against the cage for leverage, such as when pinned or during certain grappling exchanges. The technique is arguably underutilized, as many fighters avoid touching the cage, assuming it to be entirely illegal. Mastering this technique can help escape submissions or even assist the fighter in standing back up from the ground - thereby significantly changing the dynamic of the fight.

Utilizing the cage can also be a way to get up, as illustrated in the video below.

Embedded from Stephen Thompson (October 2024)

3. Shoulder Strikes

This technique is quite straightforward — a fighter uses their shoulder to strike their opponent, typically in a clinch or when pressed against the cage. The technique often catches opponents by surprise, as evidenced in McGregor's fight against Cerrone, probably the most famous use of the technique, where McGregor broke Cerrone's nose.

As demonstrated in the McGregor-Cerrone fight, the shoulder strike can create openings for follow-up strikes that may lead to a fight-ending sequence.

Embedded from Chael Sonnen (October 2024)

2. Foot Stomps

Foot stomps, along with the technique mentioned in point 1 below, are among the most discussed techniques that are still legal in MMA. While they are obviously not a fight-ending technique, they can potentially wear down an opponent over time.

A prominent example was Usman utilizing them against Masvidal during clinch exchanges, weakening Masvidal's movement over time and frustrating his attempts to break free.

Embedded from Teddy Atlas, The Fight (October 2024)

1. the Oblique kick

Probably the most controversial legal technique in modern MMA, the oblique kick is directed at an opponent's knee, typically targeting the front leg. While it generally requires precise timing and positioning — making it a high-risk, high-reward move — it can significantly limit an opponent's movement over time, potentially making it difficult for them to close distance and plant their feet for powerful strikes.

The most famous user of this technique is obviously Jon Jones, who has been criticized on numerous occasions for employing it, in particular by Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, who indicated that he had destroyed his knee with the technique.

Embedded from VICE Sports (October 2024)

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