Origin and Significance of the Rear Naked Choke

The rear naked choke (RNC) derives its name from the Portuguese term 'matalão,' meaning 'lion killer,' reflecting its status as one of grappling's most powerful submissions. This technique is fundamental to back control dominance in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and mixed martial arts. Understanding its historical context emphasizes the importance of proper execution and control.

Foundation: The Seatbelt Grip Setup

The traditional RNC begins from the seatbelt grip, the most secure position for back control. The practitioner forms a fist with the upper hand and positions it near the opponent's heart—'like a dagger'—while the lower hand caps it from underneath. This configuration prevents the opponent from successfully stripping the grip by targeting the top hand first.

Deep Arm Insertion and Shoulder Blade Control

The attacking arm slides as deep as possible underneath the opponent's armpit, with the hand palming the shoulder blade for maximum control. This deep positioning is critical for preventing arm lock counters and setting up the finishing technique. The grip remains protected until the final choking position is secured.

The Neck Grip and Finishing Mechanics

Rather than reaching over the shoulder where the opponent can grab and defend, the practitioner slips behind the neck and grabs their own bicep with the attacking hand. The rear hand is positioned palm-forward against the head, and the choke is finished by squeezing while using the head as additional pressure. This positioning maximizes constriction of the carotid arteries.

Alternative: Palm-to-Palm Grip Variation

When the seatbelt grip is compromised during live sparring, practitioners can transition to a palm-to-palm grip combined with a gable grip on the back of the head. This alternative setup provides a reliable finishing option when positional control is contested. The mechanics remain similar, though the grip configuration offers different leverage points.

One-Arm RNC from the Hook Position

From the seatbelt grip with established hooks, the practitioner can fall to the side and insert the arm along the shoulder blade while driving the top leg hook. This variation allows completion with just the one-arm choke by leveraging leg pressure alongside upper body tension. The position demonstrates the versatility of the RNC from dominant back control.

Elbow Concealment and Lean-Back Compression

A deceptive variation involves hiding the back elbow as deep as possible underneath the opponent's arm before leaning back sharply. This compression method restricts blood flow through positional leverage rather than traditional grip mechanics. The lean-back approach is particularly effective against defenders actively resisting the standard finish.

Shoulder Blade Insertion Counter-Defense Strategy

The final variation involves tapping the opponent's shoulder before slipping the arm in with an active palm placement on the shoulder blade. From this position, the practitioner can finish the one-arm choke, allow the opponent to defend further, or transition to any of the previously outlined finishing methods. This adaptive approach ensures submission success regardless of defensive responses.

How to Rear Naked Choke (RNC) for Beginners

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Submission Grappling

Forearm Compression Short Choke

3 min read·8 key moments·PT3M56S video

Key Takeaways

•Origin and Significance of the Rear Naked Choke
•Foundation: The Seatbelt Grip Setup
•Deep Arm Insertion and Shoulder Blade Control
•The Neck Grip and Finishing Mechanics

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about forearm compression short choke?

This video covers origin and significance of the rear naked choke, foundation: the seatbelt grip setup, deep arm insertion and shoulder blade control. It provides detailed instruction from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Submission Grappling.

How long does it take to learn forearm compression short choke?

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.