The Complete Underhook System

The underhook represents a fundamental grappling position utilized extensively in American wrestling and highly applicable to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This instructional covers three primary setups to establish the underhook and three high-percentage takedown applications.

Setup 1: Shoulder Slip from Collar Tie

When an opponent establishes a collar tie, the practitioner executes a shoulder slip by driving the shoulder inward, stepping forward, and securing the underhook. The elbow must point toward the ceiling with the hand clasping tightly to prevent the opponent from circling out via bicep-to-ear escape.

Setup 2: Horizontal Elbow Punch Against Thumb Block

When the opponent prevents the shoulder slip with a thumb block, the practitioner uses a horizontal C-clamp punch to clear the blocking arm at the elbow. After clearing the obstruction, the practitioner steps inward to secure the underhook position.

Setup 3: Inside Wrist Grip Transition

When the opponent quickly withdraws their elbow after a punch attempt, the practitioner secures an inside wrist grip by reaching upward and driving the knuckles over the opponent's wrist. By pulling the head laterally and lifting the wrist, the practitioner creates sufficient space to release the thumb and step into the underhook.

Takedown 1: Snatch Single Leg

From the underhook position, the practitioner steps foot-to-foot and executes a shot-put motion similar to Brock Lesnar's technique, driving the opponent's weight onto the far leg. The inside leg naturally elevates into the practitioner's grip, establishing a high-percentage single-leg takedown.

Takedown 2: Knee Pick Adjustment

When the opponent keeps their near-side leg withdrawn to prevent the snatch single, the practitioner redirects the attack to the far leg with a knee pick. This adjustment addresses the opponent's defensive read while maintaining control from the underhook.

Takedown 3: Snap Down and Front Headlock

When both legs are withdrawn and the opponent sits their hips back, the underhook naturally transitions into a snap-down position. From this front headlock control, the practitioner can attack with guillotine chokes or rotate to rear control.

Finishing Sequence: The Cow Catcher

The practitioner pulls the far arm upward and drives the underhook deeper to the far hip, pinning the opponent's chin in the palm of the hand. The underhook is then driven diagonally across the far-side shoulder while peeling the head laterally, transitioning directly into side control.

Depth and Leverage Mechanics

The practitioner must first elevate the underhook to the far hip and secure its depth before changing direction across the shoulder. This preliminary positioning creates sufficient leverage to execute the finishing mechanics and prevent the opponent from defending with an overhook at closer range.

Learn to Underhook Like a Wrestler | Wrestling for BJJ

Wrestling University - Takedowns for Jiu Jitsu

Standard Single Underhook

2 min read·9 key moments·PT6M15S video

Key Takeaways

•The Complete Underhook System
•Setup 1: Shoulder Slip from Collar Tie
•Setup 2: Horizontal Elbow Punch Against Thumb Block
•Setup 3: Inside Wrist Grip Transition

🔥 BIG ANNOUNCEMENT 🔥 My next instructional "The Easiest Way to Takedown a Bigger Opponent" drops this fall 👀 🗣️ Get notified of the release by joining our email group and you'll also receive our highly reviewed free takedown mini-course👇🏻 🏅Join Our Email Group & Get the Free Mini Course↴ https://www.wrestling.university/FREECOURSE 🏅 For Those Truly Looking to Master Takedowns - Buy My Flagship 'Wrestling for Jiu Jitsu' Course, The Effective Takedown System: https://www.wrestling.university/offers/waRSr6np?coupon_code=RELEASEDEAL --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- #bjjtakedowns #bjj #wrestling #takedowns

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about standard single underhook?

This video covers the complete underhook system, setup 1: shoulder slip from collar tie, setup 2: horizontal elbow punch against thumb block. It provides detailed instruction from Wrestling University - Takedowns for Jiu Jitsu.

How long does it take to learn standard single underhook?

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.