Introduction to the Last Resort Escape

The Last Resort Escape is an advanced side control escape technique employed when primary escape methods have failed. This technique prioritizes creating space and achieving a defensive position before executing counterattacks.

Initial Setup and Hand Positioning

From side control, the instructor establishes a frame or shoulder grip on the opponent. The escape begins by circling the free hand in a wide arc to avoid striking the opponent's face while building momentum.

The Bridge and Hip Escape

The instructor bridges the hips upward with controlled motion, avoiding a direct hip thrust that would allow the opponent to re-establish control. This creates the critical space needed to proceed with the escape sequence.

Foot Repositioning and Turtle Position

After bridging, the instructor walks the feet outward while threading the hand through the gap created. The practitioner immediately transitions to all fours in a turtle position to establish a stable defensive base.

Attack One: Alligator Roll

From turtle position, the first follow-up attack involves hooking the opponent's elbow while tucking the inside knee. A barrel roll over the shoulder executes a complete reversal, placing the practitioner in top control position.

Attack Two: Rampage Roll to Guard

The second attack employs a similar escape structure but concludes differently. The instructor shoots the hand deep through the legs and rolls while maintaining a wide leg position to pull the opponent back into closed guard.

Attack Three: Triangle Choke Finish

Against aggressive opponents, the escaping practitioner uses the inside leg to catch and control during the roll. This leg positioning sets up an immediate triangle choke submission from the guard position.

Complete Technique Sequence Review

The Last Resort Escape combines three distinct follow-up attacks: the alligator roll to top position, the rampage roll to closed guard, and the triangle setup with leg catch. Practitioners should master each variation to adapt to opponent responses.

Side control escape, Last Resort Escape Series - Technique on Command

Strong Hold Jiu Jitsu

Desperation Escape

2 min read·8 key moments·PT2M34S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to the Last Resort Escape
•Initial Setup and Hand Positioning
•The Bridge and Hip Escape
•Foot Repositioning and Turtle Position

Technique by Black Belt Wade Barden Last resort side control escape. Alligator roll Grambi to guard or triangle

Related Techniques

Getting Up Against the Cage Spin Around Cage Escape Hip Out Mount Escape Running Up the Cage Mount Escape

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about desperation escape?

This video covers introduction to the last resort escape, initial setup and hand positioning, the bridge and hip escape. It provides detailed instruction from Strong Hold Jiu Jitsu.

How long does it take to learn desperation escape?

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.