Rabbit Punch

A rabbit punch is a punch to the back of the neck or the base of the skull. It is considered especially dangerous because it can damage the cervical vertebrae and subsequently the spinal cord, which may lead to serious and irreparable spinal cord injury. A rabbit punch can also detach the victim's brain from the brain stem, which can kill instantly.


The term "rabbit punch" is derived from the use of the technique by hunters to kill rabbits with a quick, sharp strike to the back of the head.


Rabbit punches are illegal in most combat sports, including boxing, mixed martial arts, and wrestling. If a fighter is caught throwing a rabbit punch, they can be disqualified from the fight.