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Why can't you elbow in UFC?

Published in UFC Rules 3 mins read

In UFC, you generally can use elbows, but one specific type of elbow strike is strictly prohibited: the 12-6 elbow.

The Prohibited 12-6 Elbow

The reason you "can't elbow" in UFC typically refers to the ban on the downward, straight-arm elbow strike known as the 12-6 elbow. This strike is performed by bringing the elbow down in a straight vertical line, similar to the hand of a clock moving from 12 o'clock straight down to 6 o'clock.

Why the Ban on 12-6 Elbows?

The Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts, which govern UFC bouts, categorize the 12-6 elbow as an illegal move primarily due to safety concerns. The primary justifications for banning this specific strike are rooted in the significant potential for severe injury:

  • Damage to the Orbital Bone: A direct 12-6 strike can inflict substantial damage to the opponent's orbital bone (the bone surrounding the eye socket), potentially leading to serious eye injuries or fractures.
  • Spinal Injuries: When executed from certain positions, especially on a grounded opponent, a 12-6 elbow carries a high risk of causing spinal injuries. The downward force, combined with the hard point of the elbow, makes it particularly dangerous for the spine.
  • Fighter Size Differences: The potential for these severe injuries is amplified when there are significant size differences between fighters, as the larger fighter could inflict devastating damage with such a strike.

This rule aims to protect fighters from potentially career-ending or life-altering injuries while still allowing for the dynamic and varied striking that makes mixed martial arts exciting. You can learn more about this specific prohibition on the 12–6 elbow Wikipedia page.

What Elbows Are Allowed?

While the 12-6 elbow is banned, other elbow strikes are perfectly legal and are frequently used in UFC fights. These include:

  • Horizontal Elbows: Thrown sideways, parallel to the ground.
  • Upward Elbows: Struck upwards, often used in clinches.
  • Diagonal Elbows: Including spinning back elbows or those thrown at an angle.
  • Elbows from Guard: When a fighter is on their back, they can use elbows to strike an opponent standing over them.

Here's a quick comparison:

Allowed Elbow Strikes Prohibited Elbow Strikes
Horizontal (e.g., in close range, clinch) 12-6 (straight downward)
Upward (e.g., from clinch)
Diagonal (e.g., spinning back elbow)
From bottom position (e.g., striking an opponent on top)

Therefore, the restriction isn't on all elbow strikes but specifically on a dangerous downward motion intended to minimize severe, potentially crippling injuries.