Setup from Single Leg Takedown Defense

When an opponent secures a single leg takedown, the defender threads their right arm through the opponent's left armpit and grabs their own inner thigh to create mutual attachment. The defender then places their hand to the mat while maintaining the overhook, which is the critical control element that prevents the opponent from escaping.

Leg Positioning and Scissor Mechanics

The defender jumps their left foot next to the opponent's left foot, then hooks their left leg behind the opponent's left leg. By keeping the leg pinched and maintaining the overhook, the defender executes a chopping motion with their heel while driving forward to complete the sweep.

Transition to Side Control

After the opponent lands on their back, the defender retains the overhook, places their free hand across the opponent's body, and slides their leg down to establish side control position.

Alternative Entry from Standing

From a standing clinch, the defender switches stance by jumping their right foot between the opponent's legs while placing both hands on the mat. The defender then shoots their left leg to the outside of the opponent's leg and crosses both legs to execute the scissor sweep.

Scissor Sweep from Underhook

When the opponent establishes an underhook, the defender places their hand against their own chest in a similar manner to the inner thigh grip. The defender steps between the opponent's legs, jumps with their hand to the mat, and executes the sweep while maintaining the overhook throughout.

Key Execution Principles

Success with the scissor sweep depends on securing the overhook early and maintaining it throughout the technique. The defender must align both feet with the opponent's feet, place their hand to the mat, and ensure their legs cross completely to guarantee the takedown before transitioning to a superior position.

The Scissor Sweep Takedown MMA Surge, Episode 20

mahalodotcom

Scissor Takedown

2 min read·6 key moments·PT4M16S video

Key Takeaways

•Setup from Single Leg Takedown Defense
•Leg Positioning and Scissor Mechanics
•Transition to Side Control
•Alternative Entry from Standing

Get Squid's 10 secret moves! http://goo.gl/hizGB How to Pull It Off: 1. Hook your right arm through opponent's left armpit. 2. Bring left foot over to right side of opponent's left foot. 3. Jump left leg back and behind opponent's left leg, driving him to your right and onto his back. 4. Reach left hand over opponent, slide legs down. Top 5 MMA Surges: 1. Bas Rutten's Liver Shot: http://goo.gl/Gj0Vx 2. The Triangle Choke: http://goo.gl/1wbCl 3. Rear Naked Choke: http://goo.gl/k27Bk 4. Double Leg Takedown: http://goo.gl/FnYe4 5. The Guillotine: http://goo.gl/HKMrk About Squid: Originally from Queens, NYC, The Squid has a history of taking down the competition. He has dominated at Vale Tudo contests, Grappler's Quest Nationals, even the National Fighting Championship. Follow him on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/AndrewJitsu.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about scissor takedown?

This video covers setup from single leg takedown defense, leg positioning and scissor mechanics, transition to side control. It provides detailed instruction from mahalodotcom.

How long does it take to learn scissor takedown?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 6-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.