Introduction & Safety Warning
This technique is a devastating neck crank that produces immediate results through controlled spinal manipulation. It is applicable in self-defense, MMA, and certain grappling competitions where neck cranks are permitted. However, practitioners must understand the serious injury potential and only practice with fully consenting, experienced training partners.
Initial Setup & Position Control
From rear mount, the instructor establishes control by rolling the opponent onto their side and securing their arm. The practitioner positions themselves high on the opponent's back, maintaining dominant control before executing the crank.
Hand Placement & Mechanics
Rather than gripping the neck directly, the practitioner clasps hands on the top of the opponent's head. This positioning leverages the opponent's own bodyweight and spine alignment to create the cranking force, avoiding reliance on arm strength alone.
Understanding the Biomechanics
The technique functions similarly to a deadlift motion, utilizing the body's strongest lever system against one of its most vulnerable targets—the cervical spine. The opening motion through hip extension can generate tremendous force, making this technique extremely dangerous without proper control.
Execution: Roll & Crank
From the control position, the practitioner rolls onto their shoulder while maintaining head position. The upward pull combined with the body's extension creates the cranking force that compresses and flexes the opponent's neck.
Positional Dominance & Striking Options
Once the crank is established, the opponent has no viable escape—both arms are trapped and mobility is severely restricted. The practitioner can incorporate strikes to the face, traps, or temples, or proceed directly to the neck crank depending on the situation and ruleset.
Critical Safety & Legal Considerations
Full-power application of this technique can cause serious injury requiring surgery, permanent disability, or death. Practitioners must verify that neck cranks are legal in their specific competition ruleset and only apply controlled pressure with willing partners who understand the risks.
Training Responsibility & Defense
Understanding and practicing this technique is essential for comprehensive self-defense and competition preparation. Practitioners have a responsibility to both teach and apply this knowledge ethically, recognizing that awareness of such techniques enables proper defensive counters and situational awareness.
Crank his neck or knee his face - A devasting Neck Crank from the Leg Nelson
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction & Safety Warning
- •Initial Setup & Position Control
- •Hand Placement & Mechanics
- •Understanding the Biomechanics
In this video BJJ Blackbelt Björn Friedrich shows a very effective combination of Leg Nelson and a powerful Neck Crank. Besides that this is a great position to punch or knee strike from because your opponent is completely trapped- This is an excerpt of his new series "German Neck Humilation" which is available at BJJ Fanatics: https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/new-releases/products/german-neck-humiliation-by-bjorn-friedrich If you like Björns videos be sure to subscribe his youtube channel and check out his other releases: You can buy all of Björns instructional video series at BJJ Fanatics: https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/all/fighter_bjorn-friedrich You can find his Knife Defense series here: https://effectiveselfdefense.com/products/survive-the-knife-by-bjorn-friedrich If you are looking fore DVDs you can find his DVDs here: https://www.budovideos.com/search?q=Bj%C3%B6rn Please visit our sponsor at: https://www.Nogi.com If you want to learn more about Björn and his approach to BJJ check out his website: https://www.EffortlessJiuJitsu.com
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about face crank from rear mount?
This video covers introduction & safety warning, initial setup & position control, hand placement & mechanics. It provides detailed instruction from EffortlessJiuJitsu.
How long does it take to learn face crank from rear mount?
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.
What are the key details for finishing face crank from rear mount?
Full-power application of this technique can cause serious injury requiring surgery, permanent disability, or death. Practitioners must verify that neck cranks are legal in their specific competition ruleset and only apply controlled pressure with willing partners who understand the risks.
