6 Clinch Grips You Should Know For Effective Muay Thai Clinching

Grips play a vital role in the Muay Thai clinch, providing control over your opponent’s posture and balance. By mastering different grip positions, you can effectively sweep and knee your opponent with precision.

A grip involves locking your hands together to create a strong hold, allowing you to manipulate your opponent’s movements and protect yourself from potential strikes. In this article, we will explore 6 essential grip positions in Muay Thai and how to leverage them in your clinch game.

1) Double Collar-Tie

The double collar-tie is a dominant clinch position that involves securing both arms inside your opponent’s gloves. By locking your palms around their neck and controlling their posture, you can set up devastating knee strikes and maintain control over the fight.

2) The 50-50 Position

The 50-50 position is a neutral grip where both fighters have a single collar-tie each. While not as dominant as other positions, a strong 50-50 grip is essential for transitioning into more advantageous holds.

3) Single Collar-Tie And Overhook

The single collar-tie and overhook combine control over your opponent’s neck with a tight arm grip. This position sets you up for powerful knee strikes and sweeps, making it a versatile tool in the clinch.

4) Single Collar-Tie And Underhook

The single collar-tie with an underhook, also known as the “seatbelt” position, allows you to control your opponent’s body and deliver knees at will. By maneuvering around your opponent and securing this grip, you can dominate the clinch game.

5) Cross-Face

The cross-face grip is a strategic hold that positions your opponent’s face for incoming knee strikes. By utilizing this grip off the back of an underhook, you can effectively disable your opponent’s defenses and land powerful blows.

6) Body Lock

The body lock involves wrapping your arms around your opponent’s body or chest in a bear hug. This grip allows you to control your opponent’s movements and deliver knees without risking your own posture. Use this position carefully to avoid fouls and injuries.

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