Preventing the Guard Position

When an opponent attempts to pull guard, the instructor demonstrates how to prevent this by positioning the inside leg between the opponent's legs and driving the hips downward. By maintaining this leg placement and controlling the opponent's body, the practitioner can neutralize guard attacks before they develop.

The Collar and Elbow Clinch Foundation

The collar and elbow tie-up serves as a fundamental catch wrestling position. The instructor explains that the opponent uses their arm as a brace and push, which the practitioner can exploit by maintaining pressure and controlling the clinch.

Head and Arm Takedown from Open Position

When the opponent's arm flares outward, the practitioner can transition into a standing head and arm position similar to techniques used by Greco-Roman legend Alexander Karelin. By underhooking the arm and driving the hips forward, the practitioner can control and take down the opponent.

The Wrist Cutdown Technique

From the clinch position, the instructor demonstrates using the cutting edge of the wrist against the opponent's neck. Combined with scissor-like leg action and downward pressure, this technique forces the opponent into a compromised defensive position.

Maintaining Defensive Pressure

The core principle of catch wrestling is applying constant pressure to force the opponent into a defensive mentality. When the opponent focuses on escaping rather than attacking, the practitioner maintains the offensive initiative and control throughout the exchange.

Eye-Driven Pressure Point Control

In close clinch positions, the instructor notes that applying the head against the opponent's eye forces them deeper into defensive reactions. This subtle pressure point manipulation enhances overall clinch control and positioning.

Controlling Hip Escape Attempts

When the opponent attempts to scrap their hips upward to escape, the practitioner can control the chin and drive the opponent backward. By maintaining hip connection and weight distribution, forward momentum can be reestablished.

The Reactive Nature of Catch Wrestling

Catch wrestling fundamentally operates on reactive exchanges where the practitioner's actions are determined by the opponent's responses. The instructor emphasizes that positioning and control, as demonstrated by elite catch wrestlers like Josh Barnett and Sakuraba, depend on this responsive, pressure-based approach.

Catch Wrestling Techniques Collar And Elbow Tie Up_R

Lynn Phillipsen

Collar Elbow Clinch

2 min read·8 key moments·PT6M14S video

Key Takeaways

•Preventing the Guard Position
•The Collar and Elbow Clinch Foundation
•Head and Arm Takedown from Open Position
•The Wrist Cutdown Technique

Related Techniques

Wrist Control Clinch

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about collar elbow clinch?

This video covers preventing the guard position, the collar and elbow clinch foundation, head and arm takedown from open position. It provides detailed instruction from Lynn Phillipsen.

How long does it take to learn collar elbow clinch?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.