Understanding Rear Naked Choke Defense

When the opponent defends against a rear naked choke attempt by controlling the attacking arm, a seamless transition to the Ezequiel choke becomes available. This counter-technique capitalizes on the opponent's defensive positioning and their hands being occupied with arm defense.

Step 1: Cross-Body Grip Transfer

From rear control, grab your own wrist with your bottom hand and drive it forcefully across the opponent's body to the opposite side of the neck. This motion should be explosive and complete, ensuring the forearm makes solid contact with the far carotid artery. The initial grip strength here is critical for setting up the subsequent steps.

Step 2: Sleeve Insertion and Fist Positioning

Once the cross-body grip is secure and the opponent feels pressure on their neck, insert your fist deep into your own gi sleeve on the opposite side. The knuckles should penetrate the sleeve deeply, creating a stable anchor point for the choke mechanism.

Step 3: Second Hand Placement

Pass your second hand in front of the opponent's neck to the opposite side, positioning your second forearm against the remaining carotid artery. Both forearms are now simultaneously compressing the carotid arteries—one from behind and one from the front. Avoid pressing into the back of the head; focus on precise carotid placement.

Finishing the Submission

With both forearms properly positioned on the carotid arteries and your hands anchored, simply lean backward with a relaxed motion as if resting. This gentle, controlled backward lean creates tremendous pressure against both carotid arteries simultaneously. The opponent will tap immediately due to the dual-artery compression.

Variation: Transitioning from Rear Naked Choke Attempt

When attempting a rear naked choke and encountering arm defense, immediately abandon the traditional grip and execute the cross-body wrist grab instead. This variation is particularly effective because the opponent is already committed to defending the original choke, leaving them vulnerable to the positional shift.

Key Execution Principles

The Ezequiel choke's effectiveness depends on precise forearm placement against both carotid arteries rather than muscular pressure. Maintain relaxed shoulders and allow the mechanical advantage of the position and your bodyweight to generate the submission. Avoid common mistakes such as pushing the back of the head or muscling the arms together.

How To Do Ezekiel Choke From Back: Jiu Jitsu for beginners - submissions from back control

BJJ and Friends

Ezequiel Choke from the Back

2 min read·7 key moments·PT4M52S video

Key Takeaways

•Understanding Rear Naked Choke Defense
•Step 1: Cross-Body Grip Transfer
•Step 2: Sleeve Insertion and Fist Positioning
•Step 3: Second Hand Placement

How To Do Ezekiel Choke From Back: Jiu Jitsu for beginners - submissions from back control - Subscribe here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgDjS1rafEfn_VM5eppkRhw We know that there are a lot of great Jiu Jitsu Tutorials channels out there, thank you for choosing ours. Your support goes a long way. By subscribing to our channel you are helping directly to allow us to continue to create great daily content for your enjoyment. In this BJJ techniques for beginners video, We are going to cover one of my favorite submissions. It is the Ezekiel choke. I am sure you have seen it many times, but have you seen this variation? This is a great technique to do when your opponent is defending the "rear naked" choke and you want to have an easy opportunity to win. Enjoy! Help us grow, share, like and subscribe. It is viewers like you that make our channel possible. P.S. Let us know in the comments what is your favorite submission to do from the back? Until next time, keep training and have a nice day! You can find us on facebook at http://www.facebook/paulfromgraciesports or visit us at www.graciesportsusa.com

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about ezequiel choke from the back?

This video covers understanding rear naked choke defense, step 1: cross-body grip transfer, step 2: sleeve insertion and fist positioning. It provides detailed instruction from BJJ and Friends.

How long does it take to learn ezequiel choke from the back?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.