Objective To investigate the role of cervical spine finite element model in predicting the risk of cervical ligament injury during Sanda combat (Chinese boxing), and compare the differences in mechanical responses of cervical ligaments after Baiquan (hook boxing) and Straight punches (cross boxing). Methods After 3D reconstruction of the head-neck osseous structure by using Mimics software based on CT images, an accurate head-neck finite element model was developed with HyperMesh software. The moment-ROM (range of motion) of the model and the head acceleration after punching were validated. Then differences in ligament force and distribution were compared between Baiquan and Straight punches under different punching forces (2.60, 3.30, 4.35 kN). Results The established head-neck model was validated to have good biofidelity, and the predicted values of head linear acceleration and rotational acceleration after punching were in agreement with those reported in the literatures. As the punching force increased from 2.6 kN to 4.35 kN, the maximum force in cervical ligament was 207, 265, 263 N in Baiquan, and 96.8, 91.4 and 101.4 N in Straight punch, which was located at atlantoaxial ligaments. Under the same force level, Baiquan generated greater force in cervical ligament than Straight punch. Conclusions Compared with Straight punch, cervical ligament injuries are more likely to occur in Baiquan during Sanda combat, and the established finite element neck-head model can be used in studies of biomechanical mechanism of Sanda-induced injuries, which may provide a more accurate reference for Sanda training and injury prevention.