Upper cuts are a type of boxing punch that aims to strike the opponent's chin at an upward angle. As for antonyms, one could consider various downward strikes such as jabs or hooks. A jab is a quick, straight punch directed at the opponent's face, while a hook is a circular punch aimed at the side of the head or body. Alternatively, one could consider defense strategies such as blocks, dodges, or slips, which aim to avoid or absorb an opponent's upper cut. Regardless of the antonym, it is essential to note that brute force is not always the most effective approach, and strategies that incorporate finesse, timing, and adaptability are often more successful in competitive or combative scenarios.