The Ultimate Guide to Mastering Takedowns and Defense in UFC 5

Fighting games that revolve around combat sports differ from titles such as Tekken and Street Fighter. These games typically feature longer fights and employ a strategic approach that relies on damage and timing. Among the most intricate games in this genre is EA Sports UFC 5.

Many argue that mastering UFC 5 is even more challenging than boxing games like Undisputed and Fight Night. In addition to honing their skills in boxing and kickboxing, players must also familiarize themselves with the game's grappling system, which begins with executing takedowns. Understanding the art of performing, countering, and reversing takedowns in UFC 5 can have a significant impact on the outcome of a fight. This guide will provide an overview of some of the most effective takedowns and techniques for defending against them.

How To Perform Takedowns In UFC 5

To perform a Double Leg Takedown on PlayStation, hold down L2 and quickly tap Triangle and Circle buttons. On Xbox, hold down LT and quickly tap Y and B buttons.

For a more powerful version called the Power Double Leg Takedown on PlayStation, hold down L2 and Triangle buttons simultaneously, then tap the Circle button. On Xbox, hold down LT and Y buttons simultaneously, then tap the B button. Lift the opponent and press the face buttons to forcefully slam them.

To perform a Single Leg Takedown on PlayStation, hold L2 and quickly tap Square + X. On Xbox, press LT, followed by tapping X + A.

For the Power Single Leg Takedown variant, hold L2 on PlayStation and simultaneously hold Square + X. On Xbox, hold LT and simultaneously hold X + A. Once the opponent is lifted, use the face buttons to slam them.

To perform the Single Leg Shot/Ankle Pick, on the PlayStation, hold L2 and simultaneously press Square and X. On Xbox, hold LT and simultaneously press X and A.

For the Double Leg Bail Trip, on the PlayStation, hold L2 and tap Triangle, then tap Circle. On Xbox, hold LT and tap Y, then tap B. Release the buttons, then in the middle of the takedown animation, hold R2 on PlayStation or RT on Xbox to initiate the Over Under Clinch. To perform a trip, press R1 and Circle on PlayStation or RB and B on Xbox.

To execute the Double Leg Bail Sambo Suplex in UFC 5, follow these instructions:

PlayStation: Hold L2 and then quickly tap Triangle and Circle.

Xbox: Hold LT and then quickly tap Y and B.

Release the buttons and simultaneously hold R2 on PlayStation or RT on Xbox during the takedown animation to transition into the Over Under clinch.

To perform the suplex, press R1 and X on PlayStation or RB and A on Xbox.

For the Clinch To Ankle Pick Takedown:

PlayStation: Press Square and X simultaneously.

Xbox: Press X and A simultaneously.

Then, press R1 and X on PlayStation or RB and A on Xbox to execute the takedown.

Clinch To Hip Toss - Press Square + X on PlayStation or X + A on the Xbox to initiate the clinch. Then Press R1 + Circle or RB + B on the Xbox.

How To Deny Takedowns In UFC 5

Holding down L2 + R2 or LT + RT before an opponent attempts a takedown is the most reliable method to defend against it. This strategy is particularly effective when facing a predictable opponent who continuously goes for takedowns. However, using this technique leaves the player's character vulnerable to strikes as they are not defending their head. If the trigger buttons are pressed too late, the player only has a small window of opportunity to deny the takedown by moving the L-stick in the opposite direction of the opponent's movements. Mastering this skill is one of the most challenging aspects of UFC 5 and players are advised to make use of the game's built-in practice mode to perfect their timing.

Takedown Reverals In UFC 5

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To perform a submission reversal, simultaneously press and hold down L2, R2, and L1 on PlayStation, or LT, RT, and LB on Xbox. The specific type of reversal executed will vary based on the fighter's skill set. Judo specialists can execute a hip toss reversal, while BJJ submission specialists can execute a Guillotine choke reversal. In UFC 5, there are several well-rounded fighters capable of performing both types of reversals.

UFC 5 is available October 27, 2023, for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.