Introduction to the Neck Crank Armbar

Marcus Allen presents the neck crank armbar, his most reliable submission from mount position. This technique features a devastating decoy effect that makes it nearly unstoppable once the details are mastered. The move is accessible to practitioners of all levels and has proven effective in live competition.

Setup: The Underhook and Arm Elevation

From mount position, establish an underhook on the preferred side, positioning the hand underneath the opponent's elbow for maximum leverage. Using a hand-walking motion, crawl upward along the opponent's arm to elevate it. Simultaneously, secure the top of the opponent's head with the opposite hand to maintain control and create lifting leverage.

Transition: Thigh Placement and Weight Shift

Execute a single powerful motion by driving one knee upward while bringing the thigh across the opponent's chest as if setting up an arm triangle. Simultaneously, the second knee slides into position. Both hands grip the crown of the head in preparation for the next phase of the technique.

The Neck Crank: Leverage and Positioning

Sit back onto the opponent's chest while cranking the head upward with full power, transferring all body weight away from the knee. This repositioning allows the foot to plant on the mat, establishing a stable base. The uncomfortable pressure and psychological distraction of the neck crank causes the opponent to abandon arm defense.

Head Control and Armbar Setup

Push the opponent's head downward to create space for leg placement over the head. Transition from the knee-based position to a squat directly over the opponent's torso. This positioning ensures proper alignment for the final armbar finish.

Critical Error: Maintaining Pressure During the Finish

Step over the opponent's head while remaining in a tight squat position, keeping the body close rather than creating distance. Avoid falling backward, as separation allows the opponent's elbow to tuck and escape the submission. Stay connected to the opponent's body throughout the transition.

The Armbar Finish: Mechanics and Execution

Sit straight down with the thumb pointing upward while pulling the arm downward and driving the hips upward to complete the armbar. Maintain tight body contact throughout the motion to prevent escape. The combination of directional forces creates an inescapable lock on the opponent's arm.

Psychological Advantage and Timing

The neck crank creates a critical moment where the opponent must process the threat of strangulation or cervical pressure, diverting cognitive resources from arm defense. This single-focus limitation prevents the opponent from formulating an armbar escape as the submission threat transitions. The technique exploits the opponent's decision-making bandwidth to execute the finish.

MMA BJJ Neck Crank Armbar by Avellan! FFA Technique

Freestyle Fighting Academy

Rear Neck Crank From Back (No Hooks)

2 min read·8 key moments·PT7M50S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to the Neck Crank Armbar
•Setup: The Underhook and Arm Elevation
•Transition: Thigh Placement and Weight Shift
•The Neck Crank: Leverage and Positioning

http://www.MarcosAvellan.com Visit my website for more videos! The Neck Crank Armbar works for both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). Brought to you by Marcos Avellan and the Freestyle Fighting Academy. FFA has gyms in the Miami, Sunrise, Plantation, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Kendall, Miramar, Weston, Miramar, and Doral areas. Please leave a comment if you liked it, hated it, or loved it - just let me know you are alive! And please click on "like" to help me promote this video. Visit http://www.MarcosAvellan.com

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Rear Neck Crank From Body Triangle

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about rear neck crank from back (no hooks)?

This video covers introduction to the neck crank armbar, setup: the underhook and arm elevation, transition: thigh placement and weight shift. It provides detailed instruction from Freestyle Fighting Academy.

How long does it take to learn rear neck crank from back (no hooks)?

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.

Step-by-Step Breakdown8 steps