Former UFC Champ Defends Oblique Kick Against Ban Proposals
A former UFC titleholder argues that banning oblique kicks, a technique notably used by Jon Jones, would be a misstep.
Andy Foster of the California State Athletic Commission expressed openness to prohibiting oblique kicks, citing potential recovery difficulties from resulting leg injuries. He pointed to a recent injury sustained by UFC fighter Nursulton Ruziboev as an example. The discussion around oblique kicks has intensified since Jon Jones retired last year.
However, one former champion disagrees with Foster’s push to eliminate the technique.
Aljamain Sterling Criticizes Oblique Kick Ban Efforts
During a recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, ex-UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling voiced opposition to the proposed ban on oblique kicks.
Sterling dismissed Foster's concerns about recovery times from oblique kicks. "How do you recover from CTE?" Sterling questioned, highlighting other dangerous aspects of the sport like unprotected head kicks and repeated elbow strikes. He suggested focusing on enforcing existing rules and fighter accountability before introducing new regulations.
"Move your leg out of the way," Sterling advised regarding oblique kicks. He believes fighters should practice defending against such techniques rather than seeking to ban them.
Currently, there are no universal plans to ban oblique kicks in mixed martial arts, though the topic may gain more traction in 2027.
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