Introduction and Setup

The Brabo choke is a gi-specific submission applied from inside half guard, distinct from its no-gi counterpart despite sharing positional similarities. The technique begins with the aggressor controlling the opponent's lapel and capitalizing on the underhook position that naturally occurs in half guard.

Opening the Gi and Lapel Control

The attacker opens the opponent's gi to create space and counter the underhook that keeps the opponent flat. The aggressor secures the end of the lapel with their right hand, requiring sufficient spacing to execute the technique effectively.

First Hand Transfer

The right hand transfers the lapel to the left hand, which comes around the opponent's back and under their head. This transfer creates the foundational control for the choke while simultaneously driving the opponent flat by pulling upward on the armpit.

Second Hand Transfer and Lapel Positioning

The lapel is transferred back to the right hand by wrapping underneath the opponent's head. This double-transfer ensures the folded lapel material is positioned across the opponent's back in preparation for the finishing mechanism.

Choke Finishing Options

Multiple finishing methods exist: grabbing the folded lapel material for a neck choke, or transitioning into a head-and-arm variation when the opponent defends with their hand. The primary finish involves the attacker's wrist cutting upward into the neck from below while the opponent's shoulder applies downward pressure from above, creating a compressive sandwich effect.

Setup from Side Mount

The technique can be initiated from side mount by transferring the lapel underneath the opponent's arm to prevent the escape turn. Once the opponent moves into half guard, the attacker executes the same hand transfers and lapel manipulations as the standard position.

Defense Handling and Weight Application

When the opponent's hand comes up to defend the choke, the attacker can grab the elbow and rotate slightly to increase hook depth. The final position requires the attacker to drive their weight downward while pulling upward on the lapel material to complete the submission.

How To Do the Brabo Choke In The Gi

Stephan Kesting

Standard Brabo Choke

2 min read·7 key moments·PT4M55S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction and Setup
•Opening the Gi and Lapel Control
•First Hand Transfer
•Second Hand Transfer and Lapel Positioning

Step-by-step instructions for doing the Brabo Choke from half guard (or side mount) in the gi. Find out more about Stephan's free email-based course at http://www.grapplearts.com/newsletter

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about standard brabo choke?

This video covers introduction and setup, opening the gi and lapel control, first hand transfer. It provides detailed instruction from Stephan Kesting.

How long does it take to learn standard brabo choke?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.