Introduction to the Ezekiel Choke

The Ezekiel choke is a highly effective submission that can be executed from mount position. This technique is named after Ezekiel Oliveira, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu pioneer. The choke works by using the attacker's own sleeve as a compression tool against the opponent's neck.

Initial Setup and Head Control

The instructor begins from mount position by placing one hand behind the opponent's head while establishing heavy pressure. The attacker then smashes the opponent's face to one side, which prevents the opponent from rolling in that direction and opens the neck. This positioning also obscures the opponent's view of the attacking hand.

Hand Placement and Sleeve Grip

The hand beneath the opponent's head is positioned so the attacker's forefingers grip inside their own sleeve. The attacking hand then crosses the opponent's neck while the attacker executes a bear claw grip if the sleeve is too tight. The attacker then drives the hand through with a straightening arm motion to complete the choke.

Compression Mechanics

The Ezekiel choke targets the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the area between the trachea and carotid artery. The attacker straightens both arms to create pressure, with the motion resembling a cutting action across the neck. This dual-arm straightening is the key to the choke's effectiveness.

Critical Defense Principle

Unlike most chokes where creating space offers escape opportunities, the Ezekiel choke actually tightens when the opponent attempts to create distance. The defender must instead keep the attacker close and prevent arm extension rather than pushing away. This counter-intuitive defense principle makes the Ezekiel particularly difficult to escape.

Primary Escape Technique

The defender counterattacks by bringing both hands up to control the attacker's arms. One hand controls the attacker's hand while the other presses the attacker's elbow upward, breaking the choke's mechanical advantage. Even a small angle created by this arm position neutralizes the submission.

Bridge and Reversal Escape

If the defender is trapped in mount, they can trap the attacker's foot and execute an explosive bridge to create momentum for reversal. After bridging over, the defender must immediately circle their head out from under the attacker's arms while maintaining hand control. This escape sequence prevents re-application of the choke.

Integration with Mount Escapes

The Ezekiel defense integrates seamlessly with standard mount escape techniques such as the upa and elbow escape. The defender maintains hand control on the attacker's arms while executing these positional escapes. The same arm control principles apply regardless of which escape method is selected.

Universal Application and Versatility

The Ezekiel choke can be applied from virtually any position where the attacker's head is near the opponent's neck, including inferior positions. This makes it one of the few submissions effective from bottom positions. The defense remains consistent regardless of position—always control the attacker's hand and press the elbow upward.

EASY CHOKE! (Ezekiel Choke) - Setup Details and Defense

James Clingerman

Ezekiel Choke From Guard

3 min read·9 key moments·PT9M42S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to the Ezekiel Choke
•Initial Setup and Head Control
•Hand Placement and Sleeve Grip
•Compression Mechanics

Coach James Clingerman teaches advanced setup details for the Ezekiel Choke, and follows up with a simple defense technique. This is a versatile choke—a BJJ White Belt favorite—but the defense is a MUST know! (00:00) - Intro (00:12) - Ezekiel Choke (03:28) - Ezekiel Choke Defense — — — Ask a question - https://thefighthub.com/contact-james-clingerman/ — — — BJJ Foundation - https://bjj.foundation The ultimate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fundamentals program, only $12/month! - 375 Videos - Over 23 HOURS of content - Unlimited access, cancel anytime - 50% off first month (Promo Code: TRIAL) https://www.instagram.com/bjj.foundation https://www.facebook.com/BJJ.Foundation — — — The Fight Hub - https://thefighthub.com - Quality BJJ, Kickboxing, and MMA gear - Exclusive instructional videos from top instructors - Order custom gear for your Martial Arts gym https://www.instagram.com/the_fight_hub https://www.facebook.com/TheFightHub — — — Indiana Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy (IBJJA) - https://ibjja.com - Train with Coach James, 4th Degree Black Belt - Free 30-Day Trial—BJJ, Kickboxing, and Judo - Visitors always welcome, no drop-in fees! - Located in Greenwood, IN, just south of Indianapolis https://www.facebook.com/IndianaBrazilianJiuJitsuAcademy https://www.instagram.com/ibjja/

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Ezekiel Choke From Mount

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about ezekiel choke from guard?

This video covers introduction to the ezekiel choke, initial setup and head control, hand placement and sleeve grip. It provides detailed instruction from James Clingerman.

How long does it take to learn ezekiel choke from guard?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.