Introduction to the Baseball Choke

Magid Hage, known as "The Gorilla Hands," is recognized for executing the baseball choke from virtually any position. The technique is particularly effective when opponents use pressure passing, which is slower and gives the defender time to establish grip control while the passer remains focused on forward momentum.

Setup During Pressure Pass Defense

When facing an over-under pass with the passer's arm clamping the belt, the defender uses a framing motion as if attempting to escape. This action allows the defender to establish a four-finger grip on the same side of the collar while the passer maintains pressure, making the passer reluctant to release the guard pass they've worked for.

Establishing the Collar Grip

After securing the four-finger grip, the defender opens their hand to create slack in the collar, allowing them to feed their hand and establish a second grip on the top of the gi. This two-handed collar control is executed as the passer completes their pass.

Finishing from Side Control

As the passer achieves side control and attempts to hug the defender's head, the defender bumps slightly to create space. The defender then brings their elbow across the passer's neck and begins rolling to the side while squeezing, converting the grip into a cross choke.

Four-Finger Grip Fundamentals

The four-finger grip on the same side of the collar is an unconventional technique contrary to typical cross-grip instruction. This same-side grip provides control that allows lazy positioning in guard, and when the second collar grip is established, it becomes difficult for the opponent to escape via armbar since the dual collar control resists arm extension.

Defensive Limitations and Positional Control

Opponents in side control face a dilemma when defending the baseball choke: breaking the grip requires releasing position, but failing to break it allows the choke to remain active even if they turn to their stomach or if the attacker takes their back. This mechanical advantage forces defenders to choose between surrendering positional advantage or remaining vulnerable to the choke.

Technical Execution and Wrist Mechanics

The finish resembles a cross choke and relies on wrist flexion rather than pulling strength. A small flex in the wrist tightens the choke effectively, similar to standard cross choke mechanics, allowing efficient finishing without excessive force.

Grip Development and Training Methods

Hage developed exceptional grip strength through dedicated training methods, including rowing machine exercises performed while wearing a gi. Building grip endurance is essential because at competitive levels, most opponents do not tap to the baseball choke and instead go to sleep, requiring sustained grip pressure until unconsciousness occurs.

The Best Jiu Jitsu Baseball Choke In The World by Magid Hage ("The Gorilla Hands")

Bernardo Faria BJJ Fanatics

Baseball Bat Lapel Rear Choke

2 min read·8 key moments·PT9M4S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to the Baseball Choke
•Setup During Pressure Pass Defense
•Establishing the Collar Grip
•Finishing from Side Control

Magid Hage is considered the one who has the best Baseball Choke in the planet. And I had the opportunity to learn it from him. Check it out. - For The Best BJJ Instructional Videos, Check Out: https://bjjfanatics.com For all your BJJ Gear and Apparel Needs Visit - https://store.bjjfanatics.com/ Are you a BJJ Fanatics Insider? If not, you are missing out! Join now at: https://bjjfanatics.com/products/insiders-club - Bernardo Faria is a 5x World Champion. Bernardo started training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Juiz de Fora - MG, Brazil at the age of 14 in 2001. After receiving the Black Belt from his first instructor Ricardo Marques in 2008, He moved to Sao Paulo to join BJJ legend Fabio Gurgel and his Alliance team. After many years of training and winning many major titles, Bernardo moved to NYC in 2013 to train and teach at Marcelo Garcia Academy. In 2015 Bernardo achieved his dream of winning the IBJJF World Championship Open class title and his division, doing the double Gold and becoming the 1st in the IBJJF Ranking and also chosen as the best athlete of 2015. Bernardo Faria has now taken on the mission to share some of the lessons, techniques, experiences and more that he has learned along in his 16 years and counting as a BJJ student, teacher and world class competitor. Subscribe to his channel, and join him in this amazing BJJ Journey. We promise that you will also improve your BJJ with his awesome Video Lessons, Episodes of his "5 Minutes BJJ Talk" and more... www.fujisports.com - 15% OFF Coupon Code: FARIA15 www.bjjfanatics.com - 10% OFF Coupon Code: YOUTUBEFARIA www.fujimats.com - 10% OFF Coupon Code: FARIAMAT10 http://bernardofaria.com https://www.facebook.com/bernardofariabjj/ https://www.instagram.com/bernardofariabjj/ https://twitter.com/bernardofariajj

Related Techniques

Cross Lapel Rear Choke FormArm Compression Rear Strangle Lapel Feed Rear Choke Rear Choke Self Lapel Rear Choke

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about baseball bat lapel rear choke?

This video covers introduction to the baseball choke, setup during pressure pass defense, establishing the collar grip. It provides detailed instruction from Bernardo Faria BJJ Fanatics.

How long does it take to learn baseball bat lapel rear 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.