The Complete Underhook System

The underhook represents a foundational grappling position utilized by elite wrestlers across America. This instructional covers three primary takedown applications and three distinct setups to establish the underhook position against collar tie attacks.

Shoulder Slip Entry

When an opponent establishes a collar tie, the shoulder slip provides the most common underhook setup in international wrestling. The practitioner slips the shoulder inside, steps forward, and secures the underhook with the elbow pointed toward the ceiling and the hand clasping downward to prevent the opponent's escape.

Proper Underhook Mechanics

The underhook must be secured with the elbow elevated and collapsed tightly across the opponent's shoulder. A lazy underhook with a disconnected elbow allows the opponent to circle their bicep to their ear and escape, whereas a tight collapse eliminates this exit route entirely.

Horizontal Punch Against Thumb Block

When the opponent blocks the shoulder slip with a thumb post, the practitioner delivers a horizontal punch at the opponent's elbow using a C-clamp grip for solid north-south connection. This clearing action creates space to step in and establish the underhook.

Inside Wrist Grip Entry

Against quick opponents who retract their elbows, the inside wrist grip provides an alternative entry. The practitioner reaches up to secure the wrist grip, then pulls the opponent's head to the side while lifting the wrist to create space for the underhook insertion.

Snatch Single Leg Takedown

Once secured in the underhook position, the practitioner removes the opponent's near-side down block and executes a shot put motion similar to Brock Lesnar's technique. This drives the opponent's weight onto their far leg, allowing the near leg to lift into the practitioner's grip for a high-percentage single-leg takedown.

Knee Pick Adjustment

When the opponent keeps the near leg far back to prevent the snatch single, the practitioner pivots the attack to the far leg and executes a knee pick. This demonstrates tactical adjustment when the opponent reads and counters the initial takedown attempt.

Snap Down from Hip Retraction

When the opponent pulls both legs back and retreats their hips to prevent leg attacks, the underhook position sets up a snap down. From this front headlock position, the practitioner can hunt for guillotines or rotate to the opponent's back.

Cow Catcher Finish to Side Control

The cow catcher finish begins with the practitioner pulling the opponent's arm up and driving the underhook deeper to the far hip. By cupping the chin and driving the underhook diagonally across the far shoulder while peeling the head, the practitioner lands directly into a dominant side control position.

Far Hip Depth Sequencing

Before executing the far shoulder finish, the practitioner must establish underhook depth on the far hip by pulling up the underhook, sitting underneath briefly to solidify position, and then changing directions diagonally. This sequencing generates the necessary leverage and prevents the opponent from defending by biting down on the arm.

Learn to Underhook Like a Wrestler | Wrestling for BJJ

Wrestling University - Takedowns for Jiu Jitsu

Standard Single Collar Tie

3 min read·10 key moments·PT6M15S video

Key Takeaways

•The Complete Underhook System
•Shoulder Slip Entry
•Proper Underhook Mechanics
•Horizontal Punch Against Thumb Block

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Striking Single Collar Tie

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about standard single collar tie?

This video covers the complete underhook system, shoulder slip entry, proper underhook mechanics. It provides detailed instruction from Wrestling University - Takedowns for Jiu Jitsu.

How long does it take to learn standard single collar tie?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 10-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.