The Strongest Strike in Boxing, Kickboxing & Muay Thai

What Science Says About Knockout Power

If you love combat sports, you’ve probably wondered:

What is the most powerful strike?

The answer isn’t as simple as naming one punch or one kick. Science shows us that “power” can mean different things:

• Peak force (Newtons): The maximum impact measured at the moment of contact.

• Impact energy (Joules): How much energy is transferred to the target.

• Rotational acceleration: The head movement that often determines whether a strike causes a knockout.

Depending on the measure, different strikes claim the top spot.

Boxing: The Art of the Knockout

In boxing, power lies in precision and speed.

• The cross (straight punch) can reach over 3,000 N of force.

• But the real knockout weapon is the hook. A perfectly timed hook to the chin produces sharp rotational acceleration of the head — exactly what causes knockouts.

• The uppercut is another fight-ending punch that can lift and rattle opponents.

This is why most knockouts in boxing come from angular punches rather than straight ones.

Kickboxing: When Legs Speak Louder

Kickboxing blends hand techniques with powerful kicks.

• Side kicks and spinning back kicks rank among the strongest strikes ever measured, hitting between 6,000–9,000 N.

• Low kicks might not reach those peak numbers, but their ability to disable an opponent’s legs makes them fight-changing.

In kickboxing, the mix of punches and kicks creates one of the most explosive arsenals in combat sports.

Muay Thai: The Art of 8 Limbs

Muay Thai is known as the “Art of 8 Limbs,” using fists, legs, elbows, and knees.

• The roundhouse kick is legendary, driven by hip rotation and full-body momentum.

• Elbows and knees don’t always register the highest force in Newtons, but because of their sharp impact, they often cause cuts, knockouts, and fight-ending injuries.

That’s why Muay Thai is considered one of the most dangerous and effective striking systems.

So, What’s the Strongest Strike?

• In raw power (Newtons): Side kicks, spinning back kicks, and roundhouse kicks dominate.

• In knockout probability: Hooks and uppercuts in boxing take the crown.

• In close-range danger: Elbows and knees are devastating in practice.

The truth is: there is no single “ultimate strike.” It all depends on technique, speed, accuracy, and timing.

Learn These Strikes in Zurich

If you’re in Zurich and you want to:

• Master the strongest strikes from boxing, kickboxing, and Muay Thai

• Improve your fitness, explosiveness, and self-defense skills

• Train with a private coach who tailors every lesson to your goals

Then join our private martial arts training in Zurich. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fighter, you’ll unleash your full striking potential.

Book your private training package in Zurich today and start your journey to real knockout power.https://www.i-fight.ch/pricing-plans/checkout-1?planId=d822920f-7059-4077-979a-63d60eb5c825&checkoutFlowId=587ea603-fb14-4427-aec4-1fc01beeb561