Rabbit punch is a technique used in boxing to strike an opponent at the back of their head or neck. The word is spelled as /ˈræbət pʌntʃ/, with the first syllable rhyming with "cab" and the second syllable sounding like "but". The term "rabbit" refers to the quick and unpredictable movements of a rabbit, while "punch" refers to the striking motion. The rabbit punch is illegal in most forms of boxing due to its potential to cause serious injury or even death.
A "rabbit punch" refers to a boxing term that characterizes a specific illegal blow to the back of an opponent's head or neck area, generally delivered with a rapid, downward motion. This term originates from the punch's likeness to the method hunters employ against rabbits to quickly and efficiently end their lives. Despite its association with boxing, a rabbit punch is not limited to this particular sport; it can be encountered in other combat sports or scenarios where physical altercations occur.
Typically executed using a twisting motion of the hand or wrist, a rabbit punch targets vulnerable areas such as the brain stem or spinal cord, which can result in severe injury or even death. Due to the potential dangers associated with this maneuver, the rabbit punch has been strictly outlawed in virtually all combat sports, including sanctioned boxing matches and mixed martial arts competitions. Notably, the intentional use of a rabbit punch reaches beyond the boundaries of fair play, disregarding established rules and regulations set for the protection of athletes.
Illegal and dangerous, the rabbit punch is met with harsh penalties in sports, such as immediate disqualification, points deductions, or fines. Its prohibition highlights the significance of maintaining the safety and welfare of competitors. The term "rabbit punch" has transcended its boxing origins and has become a recognized phrase in general parlance, used to describe any sudden and forceful blow aimed at the back of the head or neck, regardless of the context in which it occurs.
The term "rabbit punch" originates from the sport of boxing. It refers to a strike, usually to the back of the head or neck, delivered with a clenched fist. The exact etymology of the term is uncertain, but there are a few theories:
1. Rabbit: Some believe that the term "rabbit punch" is derived from an analogy with hunting rabbits. When hunting, a fast and precise punch is required to hit a rabbit and kill it instantly. In boxing, a similar punch to the back of the head or neck was thought to be able to incapacitate an opponent quickly.
2. Rabbit punch as "rabbit chopping": Another theory suggests that the term originates from the sport of rabbit chopping, popular in the 1900s. This sport involved striking a rabbit's neck from the back in a similar manner to a boxing rabbit punch. The term could have been borrowed from that practice.