Introduction to the Z-Lock
The Z-Lock is a rare hip-focused submission that gained prominence through Eddie Cummings' leg lock methodology. Junio Casio recently executed this technique at Fight to Win 146, demonstrating its devastating effectiveness in modern BJJ competition.
Initial Position and Ankle Control
The attacker begins in a top passing position with double ankle control. The attacker then sits close to the opponent's hip and hooks the ankle and foot behind the opponent's knee bend, establishing foundational control for the leg entanglement.
Ashi Garami Setup
Rather than playing the traditional ashi garami game, the attacker shifts into a leg knot position. This requires shooting the right leg between the opponent's legs while maintaining pressure through the hooked ankle.
Knee Manipulation and Secondary Leg Control
The attacker uses their left hand to cup and bend the opponent's knee, preventing the opponent from extending and disrupting the leg entanglement. Maintaining knee flexion is critical to successfully threading the attacking leg into position.
Securing the Leg Knot Position
The attacker extends their leg to create space, shooting it through while hooking the right foot under the opponent's buttocks. Once the leg is threaded, the attacker releases the original ankle control as the primary leg becomes trapped in the ripped position.
Capturing the Secondary Leg
The attacker's right hand cups the far knee while the left hand maintains control of the attacking leg's shin for stability. The attacker then falls to the left side, pinning the opponent's secondary leg down while exposing the primary leg for submission.
Finishing Mechanics: Hip Internal Rotation
The attacker controls the opponent's foot with a C-grip, pushing upward to force the knee into an unnatural nine-degree angle. This angle transfers stress from the knee joint directly to the hip, targeting the primary hip internal rotator muscle which is difficult to resist at end range.
Alternative Finish: Knee-Controlled Leg Knot
An advanced variation replaces arm control with the attacker's own knee, securing the opponent's ankle against the back of the knee. This adjustment frees both arms, allowing the attacker to simultaneously threaten the toe hold or outside heel hook for multiple submission angles.
The Exotic Z-Lock Submission - BJJ Leg Lock
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to the Z-Lock
- •Initial Position and Ankle Control
- •Ashi Garami Setup
- •Knee Manipulation and Secondary Leg Control
Here's a breakdown of one of the rarest and most exotic Leg Lock submissions in BJJ, The Z-Lock, which attacks primarily the hip joint. The Z-Lock submission became popular last year when leg lock master, Eddie Cummings, posted a video on his Instagram account. Since then, this is potentially the first time that the submission has been successfully used in BJJ competition, when Edwin "Junny" Ocasio faced Justin Ordinario at Fight to Win 146. A Guide To The Main Leglock Positions: https://youtu.be/xWrEk9MbvUc Click Here To Subscribe So You Never Miss A Video ➤ https://bit.ly/2CxCEvi BJJ Courses: https://www.mmaleech.com/best-bjj-instructionals-for-beginners/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mmaleech/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mmaleech/ Free BJJ Mini-Courses: https://www.mmaleech.com/free-stuff/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about z-lock?
This video covers introduction to the z-lock, initial position and ankle control, ashi garami setup. It provides detailed instruction from MMA Leech.
How long does it take to learn z-lock?
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.
What are the key details for finishing z-lock?
The attacker controls the opponent's foot with a C-grip, pushing upward to force the knee into an unnatural nine-degree angle. This angle transfers stress from the knee joint directly to the hip, targeting the primary hip internal rotator muscle which is difficult to resist at end range.
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