Introduction to the Back Collar Control

Mark Gilston demonstrates the back collar grip, a powerful controlling position common in judo but underutilized in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This technique is particularly valuable when an opponent is in turtle position, flat on the ground, or when back choke attempts have been defended.

Establishing Control from Turtle Position

From turtle position, the instructor secures the opponent's head while gripping the back collar. Pressure is applied by leaning into the opponent and pulling upward with a heavy elbow, preventing them from turning into the grip and creating a stable control point.

Transitioning to Side Ride Position

As the opponent attempts to escape upward, the instructor releases the collar grip and secures an underhook. The key is maintaining head control—preventing the opponent's head from contacting the mat—while repositioning to the side with the arm trapped behind their head.

Establishing the Dominant Side Ride

The instructor secures a devastating side control by placing one foot against the opponent's back to prevent escape, then bringing the second foot into position. This creates an immobilizing hold that can be maintained indefinitely while setting up submissions.

Arm Trapping and Submission Setup

To finish from this position, the instructor controls the opponent's arm by tracking it with the leg while maintaining collar pressure. This frees one arm to establish a deep collar grip, setting up the scissor choke submission.

The Scissor Choke (Back Choke) Execution

With the collar secured and arm controlled, the instructor walks the elbow toward the opponent's ear while keeping their head elevated off the mat. The combination of leg control, collar grip, and elbow pressure creates a powerful choking mechanism that requires immediate submission.

Countering Arm Defense and Re-establishing Control

When the opponent defends by pulling their arm across, the instructor uses knee pressure to pin them down while sweeping underneath to recapture the arm. A deep collar grip behind the neck maintains control even as the opponent continues to struggle.

Armbar and Kimura Submissions

From the locked position, the instructor can transition to an armbar by directing the opponent's arm toward their pinky finger. If the opponent defends by rotating their hand, the instructor pivots to a kimura grip, maintaining collar control for maximum leverage throughout the transition.

Final Submission and Collar Control Priority

The instructor maintains collar grip control even during the final armbar or kimura submission, using it as a lever if the opponent attempts to clasp their hands together. This demonstrates the back collar's versatility as both a control and submission enhancement tool throughout the entire sequence.

Eri Gatame (Collar Pin) and Submissions - Judo technique for BJJ

Seiryoku Zenyo

Cattle Choke From Side Ride

2 min read·9 key moments·PT8M19S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to the Back Collar Control
•Establishing Control from Turtle Position
•Transitioning to Side Ride Position
•Establishing the Dominant Side Ride

Mark Gilston (4th degree black belt) - Judo Instructor at CooperMMA - shows how to apply a collar pin and use it for BJJ submissions. http://www.coopermma.com/

Related Techniques

Cattle Choke From Standing Headlock

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about cattle choke from side ride?

This video covers introduction to the back collar control, establishing control from turtle position, transitioning to side ride position. It provides detailed instruction from Seiryoku Zenyo.

How long does it take to learn cattle choke from side ride?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.