Introduction: Attacking from the Cradle
The cradle position, while effective for control, offers numerous offensive opportunities beyond maintaining dominance. This instructional guide demonstrates how to transition from a wrestling cradle into multiple submission attacks, specifically addressing the no-gi Ezekiel choke and Darce choke variants.
Establishing the Cradle from Turtle
The cradle begins when the top wrestler sprawls on an opponent in turtle position and secures a front headlock. The attacker grips the opponent's leg and drives them over, creating a position where the head and leg are cradled together. This fundamental wrestling position serves as the foundation for all subsequent submissions.
The No-Gi Ezekiel Choke Setup
The no-gi Ezekiel begins with a chin strap grip to control the opponent's neck direction. From the cradle, the attacker releases the leg grip and makes a fist with one hand, sliding the pinky side across the carotid artery. The other hand regrasps on top of the first forearm, creating a two-handed pressure system.
Executing the Ezekiel Choke
Once both hands are properly positioned on the carotid artery, the attacker flexes the lock by pushing downward and pulling their hand down to eliminate space. This creates simultaneous pressure on both sides of the neck, collapsing the carotid blood flow. The technique can be applied immediately after the cradle transition with proper timing and hand placement.
The Darce Choke Alternative
If the Ezekiel choke encounters resistance or the opponent's hands interfere, the attacker switches head position to the opposite shoulder. From this repositioned angle, the attacker shoots their arm through the opponent's neck in an uppercut-like motion, reaching as far as possible. The hips are rotated toward the opponent's face while squeezing the choke with maximum pressure.
Technical Considerations: Arm Length and Positioning
The Darce choke's effectiveness depends on the attacker's arm length and their height relative to the opponent. Superior positioning from a high, front headlock location provides maximum reach for the arm to thread through completely. Attempting the Darce from lower positions such as half guard may be impractical without exceptional arm length.
Timing and Integration
The no-gi Ezekiel and Darce choke should be sequenced strategically during cradle control. The instructor attempts the Ezekiel first with the chin strap grip; if the opponent defends or repositions, the immediate head switch and Darce choke becomes the secondary attack. This combination prevents the opponent from effectively defending both submissions simultaneously.
Summary: Multiple Submission Options
The cradle position provides practitioners with at least three viable submission pathways: the no-gi Ezekiel choke, the Darce choke, and traditional guillotine or arm triangle variations. Regular practice of these techniques allows wrestlers transitioning to no-gi submission grappling to maximize control positions they already know well. Integrating these submissions into cradle control significantly increases both attack rate and finishing success.
Sneaky No Gi Ezekiel & Darce Choke for BJJ from a Wrestling Cradle
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction: Attacking from the Cradle
- •Establishing the Cradle from Turtle
- •The No-Gi Ezekiel Choke Setup
- •Executing the Ezekiel Choke
We got a question about an ole wrestling move called the cradle today in this one. Our friend who goes by the name "Left Leg Trump" gets the cradle during his BJJ training sessions. But doesn't know what to do with it. For those of you who are in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and have never wrestled before. Let me lay down the basics on the Cradle. It's primarily a grip between leg and head and is used as an off balancing technique and a pin. In this video I touch on how I get to the Cradle in Brazilian Jiujitsu and then I go into detail about how I use the position to setup submissions. In the video I show how to setup one of my favorite no gi ezekiel chokes and how to turn it into a Darce Choke. Both of these are very effective submissions that I tend to favor using in No Gi BJJ. If you ever find yourself in this position or want some additional setups for chokes in no gi. Then try these techniques out. -Chewy ----------------- Free Ebook: http://www.chewjitsu.net/focused-jiu-jitsu-13-page-ebook/ Video Courses and Products: http://www.chewjitsu.net/products T shirts: http://www.chewjitsu.net/shop/ http://www.Facebook.com/Chewjitsu http://www.instagram.com/Chewjitsu http://www.twitter.com/Chewjitsu Intro/Outtro Music : http://www.thesoundproviders.com/#/ If you’d ever like to train with the team and I. Check out my gym Derby City MMA in Louisville,KY.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about ezekiel choke?
This video covers introduction: attacking from the cradle, establishing the cradle from turtle, the no-gi ezekiel choke setup. It provides detailed instruction from Chewjitsu.
How long does it take to learn ezekiel choke?
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 ezekiel choke?
The no-gi Ezekiel and Darce choke should be sequenced strategically during cradle control. The instructor attempts the Ezekiel first with the chin strap grip; if the opponent defends or repositions, the immediate head switch and Darce choke becomes the secondary attack. This combination prevents the opponent from effectively defending both submissions simultaneously.
