Crossface Face Crank
Varietyフェイスクランク(Feisu Kuranku)
TransliterationTranslation: Face Crank (katakana loanword)
Overview
The crossface face crank from crucifix uses the crossface forearm to drive across the opponent's face while the crucifix position traps both arms, preventing any defensive action. [1] The attacker controls both of the opponent's arms with the legs in a crucifix configuration, then drives the forearm across the face — typically pressing the chin toward one shoulder, creating cervical rotation and lateral flexion stress. [1],[2] The crucifix removes all hand-based defence options, leaving the opponent unable to grab the attacking arm or protect the face. [2] This combination of immobilisation and neck torque can produce both pain-compliance taps and legitimate cervical spine damage if applied aggressively. [2],[3]
History & Origin
The crucifix position with face cranks has roots in catch wrestling, where trapping both arms while attacking the neck was a standard technique chain. [1] BJJ adopted the crucifix as both a controlling position and a platform for face cranks and chokes during competition evolution in the 2000s. [2],[3]
Effectiveness
Effective pain-based submission that pressures the jaw and cervical spine; often used as a control tool to create openings rather than a primary finish [1]
Lineage
A fundamental wrestling-to-submission technique present in catch wrestling and adapted to BJJ ground fighting. The crossface principle is universal in grappling [1]
Competition Record
Commonly used for control at all competition levels; occasionally produces tap-outs from jaw pain, particularly in no-gi and MMA events where neck cranks are legal [1]
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Biomechanical Mechanism
Position & Entry
Variants
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Ratings
Risk of injury to the person this technique is applied to
Extension cranks force the head backward; risk of vertebral disc and ligament damage
Skill level needed to execute this technique reliably
Whether this technique is allowed under major competition rule sets
Training Notes
Common Mistakes
Related Techniques
Counter Techniques
Setup Chain
Sources & References
Japanese MMA/BJJ standard terminology
Japanese MMA/BJJ standard terminology
Standard katakana transliteration of Western martial arts terminology (外来語) — used in Japanese MMA, boxing, and BJJ communities
Japanese terminology sourced from Japanese MMA/BJJ standard terminology
Community
Athletics
grip or squeeze strength, positional control
strong upper body for sustained compression
forearms, biceps, pectorals, core stabilisers
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Crossface Face Crank work?
The crossface face crank from crucifix uses the crossface forearm to drive across the opponent's face while the crucifix position traps both arms, preventing any defensive action. The attacker controls both of the opponent's arms with the legs in a crucifix configuration, then drives the forearm across the face — typically pressing the chin toward one shoulder, creating cervical rotation and lateral flexion stress.
Where does the Crossface Face Crank come from?
The crucifix position with face cranks has roots in catch wrestling, where trapping both arms while attacking the neck was a standard technique chain. BJJ adopted the crucifix as both a controlling position and a platform for face cranks and chokes during competition evolution in the 2000s.
Is the Crossface Face Crank legal in competition?
IBJJF: legal — Legal at all belt levels, gi and no-gi — chokes are the safest submission cat…; IJF: legal — Legal (shime-waza) — strangulation techniques are one of three permitted subm…; ADCC: legal — Legal; Unified MMA: legal — Legal — choke submissions are among the most common finishes in MMA; FIAS Sport Sambo: banned — All chokes prohibited in Sport Sambo; FIAS Combat Sambo: legal — Legal
How dangerous is the Crossface Face Crank?
Danger rating 9/10. Extension cranks force the head backward; risk of vertebral disc and ligament damage
How do I set up the Crossface Face Crank?
The standard setup chain: Control Position → Isolate the Arm → Lock the Figure-Four → Apply Rotation.
How do I defend against the Crossface Face Crank?
Standard counters include: Straighten the Arm — extend the arm to break the figure-four grip angle / Roll Toward — roll in the direction of the lock to relieve rotational pressure / Grip the Belt/Shorts — anchor the hand to prevent the arm from being isolated.
What are the variants of the Crossface Face Crank?
Common variants: Standard grip variation (primary hand configuration for maximum choking pressure); Gi variation (uses the lapel or collar as an anchor for additional fric…); No-gi variation (adapted grip and positioning for submission grappling wit…); Transition finish (applied during a positional change to catch the opponent …).
How effective is the Crossface Face Crank in competition?
Commonly used for control at all competition levels; occasionally produces tap-outs from jaw pain, particularly in no-gi and MMA events where neck cranks are legal
What are common mistakes when doing the Crossface Face Crank?
Top errors to watch for: Applying explosive force — the cervical rotation is dangerous; the crucifix position amplifies the force since the op… / Not maintaining the crucifix while applying the crossface — the arm traps must be secure throughout; losing the cruci… / Pressing into the eyes or nose — target the jaw line for the crossface; eye/nose contact is dangerous and illegal / Using the crossface as a standalone submission — it's most effective as a setup for rear chokes; use the crank to ope….
What are other names for the Crossface Face Crank?
The Crossface Face Crank is also known as Feisu Kuranku, Crucifix Crossface Crank, Crossface Lock from Crucifix.