i'm having trouble defending the right hook.

[mighty mouse]

when i spar, i always seem to get struck with a right hook as soon as i launch anything. any tips on (a) how to avoid this situation and (b) how to defend it if it's too late?

[JIMI]

Are you sure its a right hook? Right hooks are usually not used very much in Thai Boxing if at all. Best thing i can say to keep your left hand up, tuck your chin down. Bob your head, parry the hook and counter. These are just basics. Where do you train? These are things that your instructor should be commenting on.

[yenhoi]

Might be coming from his right side.....

Could also be some sort of weird PIA straight punch going on.

Either way, unless your opponent just plain outclasses you in all ways - he is setting up either the lead or rear hook and you are falling for it.

Work on your footwork and on not telegraphing your attacks or other intentions.

[darrianation]

Wow! keep your left hand up, Dont drop your your jab. Use your footwork. Angle and keep moving to your right (opponents left),
and watch your range. Also ask your instructor.

[JP Prideaux]

Keep your chin down and inside/behind you left shoulder.

[retired]

right hook?

im suprised you said right hook as well (or is he fighting in the opposite stance ).
one little trick in thai-boxing against hooks is when he is coming in close stretch your left hand out towards his face and as he moves to right hook bring your left hand back to your head and make a sort of move as if you was brushing your hair back from your face and over the top until your glove is behind your head/neck and your elbow is pointing forward.
the advantage with this is if he dummyed you and was rushing you to get into a neck wrestling position his face will walk into your elbow. (if he does hook he will hit the outer part of your arm), you need to practice a lot with your left hand because if this is the jabbing hand it will also be the hand that does all your scoops to catch front push kicks.
practice it with a friend lots first.