Introduction to Crossface Control

The crossface serves as an alternative control method when an underhook cannot be established during side control. While an underhook is the primary tool for pinning an opponent's shoulders to the mat, the crossface provides interim control when the opponent defensively closes their elbow.

Underhook as Primary Control

The underhook is essential for solidifying a pin and preventing the opponent from recovering guard or taking the back. Without an underhook after passing, the position remains unstable even if the passer sinks back; the opponent can bump forward with their top knee and escape.

Recognizing the Crossface Position

When an opponent closes their elbow defensively and turns onto their shoulder to prevent an underhook, the passer faces a decision: release and lean back to maintain weight distribution, or employ crossface control. Leaning forward risks back exposure, making the crossface technique necessary.

Monitoring the Bottom Knee

As the opponent turns up onto their side, the passer must monitor the bottom knee to prevent the opponent from threading it through and recovering guard. This defensive priority prevents the opponent from re-establishing control while the passer works the crossface.

Forearm and Elbow Positioning

Rather than gripping the neck, the passer positions their forearm and elbow against the opponent's cheekbone and jaw to block inward head movement. This positioning prevents the opponent from creating space and separating their hips through head folding.

Head Control and Flattening

Using a finger-walking motion, the passer extends the opponent's head into a straight line when the opponent attempts to fold their head inward. This action flattens the opponent's shoulder and back to the mat even without a traditional underhook.

Hand Locking for Stability

The passer locks their hands together to anchor themselves once the opponent's head is controlled and extended. This hand lock prevents the opponent from using hip drives to escape and maintains shoulder pressure on the mat.

Walking the Forearm During Hip Drives

When the opponent drives their hips in to relieve pressure, the passer plants one hand on the mat and walks it to block the opponent's hip while continuing to extend the head with the crossface arm. Repeated hip drive attempts are countered by flaring the elbow and maintaining head extension until hand control is secured.

How To Actually Use Your Crossface

Brian Glick

Crossface Control

2 min read·8 key moments·PT9M22S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Crossface Control
•Underhook as Primary Control
•Recognizing the Crossface Position
•Monitoring the Bottom Knee

Most people think the crossface is about pushing the chin with your shoulder, but without the underhook that pressure actually gives your opponent *more* space to move. If you want to truly flatten someone and take away their ability to bridge or turn, you need to stop pulling and start using a bar to lever and keep them down. Thanks for watching 😊 Want to support this channel? Check out my ⁨@BJJ.Fanatics⁩ instructionals, where we go deep into the systems, principles and techniques you see in these videos. https://bjjfanatics.com/products/under-control-transforming-your-closed-guard-by-brian-glick https://bjjfanatics.com/products/essence-of-control-upper-body-attacks-the-crucifix-by-brian-glick https://bjjfanatics.com/products/dynamic-guard-passing-inside-position-by-brian-glick . . . . . . . . . . . . ❓ ➡️ MY BIO BY JOHN DANAHER - https://bit.ly/3gUMU5R 📷 ➡️ ON INSTAGRAM: http://www.instagram.com/bzglick 🥋 ➡️ TRAIN WITH ME: http://www.555jiujitsu.com

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about crossface control?

This video covers introduction to crossface control, underhook as primary control, recognizing the crossface position. It provides detailed instruction from Brian Glick.

How long does it take to learn crossface control?

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.