Southpaw
Southpaw
Reversed stance with the right hand and right foot forward, typical of left-handers. The right-hander stance is called orthodox.
Quick Facts
Term typeClassification of techniques, arts and schools
LanguageEnglish
Formnoun
Alternative Namesleft-hander, reversed stance
Definition
Southpaw is a stance in which the boxer has the right hand and right foot forward and the stronger left hand back. It is typical of left-handers. The opposite stance of right-handers is called orthodox. By the usual explanation, the word comes from American baseball, where it meant a left-handed pitcher. Since most fighters are right-handed, left-handers are unfamiliar to opponents. When a left-hander meets a right-hander, the front feet face each other, the front hands collide and for both the rear hand opens to the center. The stance is also used in kickboxing, muay thai and MMA.