Setup and Grip Positioning

The instructor demonstrates the foundational grip for the loop choke, achieved by rolling back hands to secure a cross-lapel grip positioned tight at the chin. The grip placement is critical—the thumb and knuckle should align so that when the wrist curls, it makes direct contact with the opponent's neck rather than sitting too high or low.

Initial Pressure and Head Positioning

The attacker initiates by pushing forward into the opponent to provoke a backward reaction. Once the opponent moves back, the attacker simultaneously smacks the head downward while elevating the body and positioning the opponent's head under the armpit. The wrist must remain curled throughout this transition to maintain proper throat contact.

Side Control Transition and Finishing Position

To complete the choke, the attacker uses three points of contact—shoulder, hand, and leg—to drive the opponent onto their side in a takedown motion. Once side control is established, the attacker positions their shoulder low on the opponent's back and drops underneath the opponent's shoulder, then drives the elbow toward the hip while pushing the opponent's shoulder toward the mat for maximum leverage.

Bottom Position Setup

From the bottom position, the attacker initiates the same grip sequence and uses repeated pushes to prompt the opponent's response. The attacker then kicks the leg out to create momentum, allowing the transition to the same choke finish applied from underneath.

Positional Deception and Grip Maintenance

The instructor emphasizes disguising the choke as a wrestling engagement rather than announcing choke intentions. The attacker should maintain the grip even if the opponent attempts to break it and can re-establish it if lost, while pushing forward to set up the head positioning.

Bottom Guard Loop Choke Variation

From bottom guard, the attacker establishes the same curled-wrist lapel grip near the chin. When the opponent begins to pass guard, the attacker rolls with them, positioning the hand over the opponent's back to prevent an escape while maintaining the choke pressure.

Finishing with Elbow-to-Hip Pressure

After the opponent passes guard, the attacker brings the elbow to the hip and applies steady pulling pressure in a lawn-mower motion. This technique relies on leverage rather than strength, and the opponent will eventually submit due to sustained pressure on the carotid artery.

Best Loop Choke Technique (top and bottom)

Matt Arroyo Jiu Jitsu

Head Loop Lapel Noose Choke

2 min read·7 key moments·PT10M38S video

Key Takeaways

•Setup and Grip Positioning
•Initial Pressure and Head Positioning
•Side Control Transition and Finishing Position
•Bottom Position Setup

http://www.MattArroyo.com Matt Arroyo teaches the loop choke from top and from bottom at Gracie Tampa South MMA. These are very high percentage chokes that will tap even the most resistant opponent. http://www.VirtualJiuJitsuAcademy.com/mainpage Matt Arroyo, BJJ, Gracie Tampa, Gracie Tampa South, Rob Kahn, Royce Gracie, BJJ Tampa, MMA Tampa

Related Techniques

Cross Lapel Cross Choke Sleeve Assisted Forarm Strangle Thrust Lapel Choke

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about head loop lapel noose choke?

This video covers setup and grip positioning, initial pressure and head positioning, side control transition and finishing position. It provides detailed instruction from Matt Arroyo Jiu Jitsu .

How long does it take to learn head loop lapel noose choke?

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.