A rabbit punch is a punch aimed at the back of the head or base of the skull. It is considered illegal and dangerous in most combat sports, including boxing and MMA, 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 victims brain from the brain stem, which can kill instantly. The punchs name is derived from the use of the technique by hunters to kill rabbits with a quick, sharp strike to the back of the head. Literally any type of punch that targets the back of a fighter’s neck or head is considered a rabbit punch, including straights, hooks, overhangs, cupping strikes, or even hammer fists. In boxing, rabbit punches are often landed with looping punches, hooks, and cupping strikes, depending on the situation. In MMA, rabbit punches are more likely to occur within a grappling situation, especially when a fighter is using ground and pound. Rabbit punches are illegal in most striking sports, such as boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, and MMA. If a fighter is caught throwing a rabbit punch, they may suffer a number of penalties after the match, including suspension, fines, and even revocation of their fighter’s license.