Introduction to the Rear Naked Choke
The rear naked choke is the most popular and effective submission in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and MMA. This technique is so efficient that practitioners of any size and skill level can execute it successfully against larger opponents.
Anatomical Mechanics: Targeting the Carotid Arteries
The rear naked choke works by occluding the two carotid arteries that supply blood to the brain. Sustained pressure on these arteries for 6-8 seconds renders an opponent unconscious, making this a potent but potentially dangerous technique that demands responsible application.
Grip Setup: The Mataleon (Lion Killer)
The dominant arm wraps around the opponent's neck with the elbow pit positioned directly against their throat. The non-dominant hand grabs the bicep or shoulder area, while the dominant hand's hook passes low under the head to create a locked, inescapable grip.
Finishing Mechanics: Three Essential Motions
To complete the choke, the practitioner executes three simultaneous movements: pushing the elbow downward into the opponent's chest, bringing the elbows together, and flexing the biceps with steady pressure. Positioning the head against the opponent's head prevents them from reaching back to escape.
Critical Errors: Elbow Placement
Beginners commonly fail to position the elbow directly under the chin, instead creating a throat crush that is less effective than a proper carotid choke. Proper elbow placement directly under the chin ensures maximum arterial compression.
Critical Errors: Hand Positioning and Grip Strength
The rear hand must be positioned low behind the head to prevent the opponent from grabbing and breaking the grip. Additionally, the grip should involve the wrist and full hand on the bicep rather than just fingers, enabling sufficient squeezing force.
Critical Errors: Vertical vs. Horizontal Pressure
Applying vertical pressure (downward elbow drive) is far more effective than attempting to hang or lift the opponent's head horizontally. The downward pressure mimics a CPR motion and directly compresses the carotid arteries rather than merely hooking under the chin.
Pressure Management: Sustained vs. Intermittent Force
Practitioners should apply only 50-70% maximum effort to maintain sustainable pressure rather than exhausting themselves with maximal squeezing. Pressure should increase gradually and steadily over time; alternating between intense squeezing and releasing wastes energy and allows escape opportunities.
Defensive Positioning: Underhook vs. Choke Side
When securing the back control position, the practitioner should fall to the underhook side rather than the choke side, as this position offers more submission options. The underhook hand controls the opponent's arm while the choke side hand initiates the finishing sequence.
Countering the Baseball Bat Grip Defense
Advanced opponents employ a baseball bat grip—with thumb over fingers—to block the incoming choke. Practitioners must neutralize this defensive grip before attempting to apply the rear naked choke.
How to do the Rear Naked Choke in Jiu Jitsu | Jiu Jitsu Tutorial | BJJ Lessons
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to the Rear Naked Choke
- •Anatomical Mechanics: Targeting the Carotid Arteries
- •Grip Setup: The Mataleon (Lion Killer)
- •Finishing Mechanics: Three Essential Motions
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about standard rear naked choke?
This video covers introduction to the rear naked choke, anatomical mechanics: targeting the carotid arteries, grip setup: the mataleon (lion killer). It provides detailed instruction from Matt Arroyo Jiu Jitsu .
How long does it take to learn standard rear naked choke?
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.
What are the key details for finishing standard rear naked choke?
When securing the back control position, the practitioner should fall to the underhook side rather than the choke side, as this position offers more submission options. The underhook hand controls the opponent's arm while the choke side hand initiates the finishing sequence.
