Octagon Control

Being aggressive and controlling the Octagon is important, because it helps you win favor with the judges and can lead to advantageous cage positions. Wise strikers pay close attention to how their opponents move, such as the direction they like to circle, or whether or not they have a tendency to back straight up.

Once you’ve acquired a feel for your rival’s habits, use footwork and sharp striking to steadily pressure them back them against the fence.

Once the opponent’s back is near the cage, initiate a clinch to transition into an advantageous cage position. You can also simply shove an opponent against the cage by pushing them toward it in the clinch.

Your strikes and takedown attempts are significantly more powerful while holding the opponent against the cage because their mobility is greatly restricted. Escaping from the cage is difficult, so use this position to your benefit.

Shooting for a takedown while the opponent is near the cage can also land you in a cage takedown position. Takedowns are easier to complete from these advantageous grappling positions, in which the opponent is pressed against the fence.